What Are Ocean Transport Bonds (FMC‑48 & FMC‑69)
Ocean Transport Bonds are federal surety bonds required by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) for companies operating as:
- Ocean Freight Forwarders (OFFs)
- Non‑Vessel‑Operating Common Carriers (NVOCCs)
- Foreign‑based NVOCCs
These bonds ensure compliance with FMC regulations and protect shippers from financial loss due to:
- Failure to pay claims
- Misrepresentation of cargo services
- Violations of FMC rules
- Loss or damage caused by improper handling
- Unethical or fraudulent business practices
If you’re applying for or renewing your FMC license or registration, you must have an active FMC‑approved bond on file.
Types of FMC Bonds We Provide
1. FMC‑48 Bond (Ocean Freight Forwarder Bond)
Required for Ocean Freight Forwarders (OFFs). Guarantees compliance with FMC regulations and proper handling of freight forwarding services.
Typical bond amount:
- $50,000 for U.S.‑based OFFs
2. FMC‑69 Bond (NVOCC Bond)
Required for Non‑Vessel‑Operating Common Carriers (NVOCCs). Protects shippers from financial loss due to NVOCC misconduct or regulatory violations.
Typical bond amounts:
- $75,000 for U.S.‑based NVOCCs
- $150,000 for foreign‑based NVOCCs
Some foreign NVOCCs may require additional coverage depending on FMC rules.
Ocean Transport Bond Amounts and Cost
Bond amounts are set by the FMC. Your annual premium depends on:
- Bond type (FMC‑48 or FMC‑69)
- Credit score
- Business financials
- Years in operation
- Claims history
Most FMC‑regulated companies qualify quickly with competitive rates.
Who Needs an FMC Bond
You may need an FMC bond if you operate as:
- An Ocean Freight Forwarder (OFF)
- A U.S.‑based NVOCC
- A foreign‑based NVOCC
- A logistics provider offering ocean transport services
- A freight intermediary handling international cargo
Any business arranging or transporting cargo by ocean must maintain an active FMC bond.
FMC Bond Requirements & Eligibility
The FMC requires:
- Completed FMC license or registration
- FMC‑mandated bond amount
- Credit review
- Annual renewal
- Continuous bond coverage to maintain active status
Failure to maintain your bond can result in suspension or revocation of your FMC authority.
How the FMC Bond Process Works
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2
Secure the Lowest Rate
We match you with the best rate available from A‑rated sureties.
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Receive your bond
Same‑day issuance available for FMC filing.
Why Ocean Transport Companies Choose Us
- Lowest rates from A‑rated sureties
- Fast approvals
- Digital delivery for immediate FMC filing
- Ocean‑transport bond specialists
- 100% federal compliance guaranteed
Top FMC Bond Questions Answered
Our most common questions answered efficiently.
Premiums vary based on bond type, credit, and financials.
Many FMC bonds are approved the same day.
It guarantees compliance with FMC regulations and protects shippers from financial loss.
Surety bonds are generally non‑refundable once issued.
Yes — foreign NVOCCs typically require a $150,000 FMC‑69 bond.
