Ocean Transport Bonds (FMC‑48 & FMC‑69)
Fast Approval & Lowest Rates
Get Your FMC Bond Today Fast approvals. Lowest rates. Guaranteed FMC compliance. Licensed nationwide. A‑rated surety partners.
An FMC bond protects shippers from financial loss and ensures your company follows all Federal Maritime Commission regulations. Whether you operate as an NVOCC, foreign‑based NVOCC, or Ocean Freight Forwarder, this bond is essential for maintaining your authority.
With an active FMC‑approved bond on file, you demonstrate financial responsibility, ethical business practices, and full compliance with federal maritime rules. It also reassures your clients that their cargo, payments, and claims are handled with integrity and professionalism.
Need help with a license or permit bond? Explore our License & Permit Bond Hub for state‑specific requirements and application guides.
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
1
Complete the Application
Submit the quick, 60‑second application.
2
Secure the Lowest Rate
We match you with the best rate available from A‑rated sureties.
3
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.
How much does an FMC bond cost?
How long does approval take?
What does an FMC bond guarantee?
Can the bond be refunded?
Do foreign NVOCCs need a higher bond?
Ready to Get Your Ocean Transport Bond?
Customer testimonials
What our customers are saying about us.
“Inspire Surety handled our FMC‑48 bond quickly and professionally. We were licensed and operational without delays.”
Priya D.
Ocean Freight Forwarder
“Our NVOCC needed a high‑value FMC‑69 bond. Inspire Surety delivered excellent rates and fast approval.”
Tootsie W.
NVOCC Owner
“We rely on Inspire Surety for all FMC compliance bonds across our logistics network. Their expertise is unmatched.”
Brian W.
Freight Forwarder
“When expanding into international shipping, Inspire Surety secured our FMC bonds with ease. Outstanding service.”
Julia R.
NVOCC Owner
“As a new NVOCC, we needed clear guidance. Inspire Surety walked us through every step and delivered our bond instantly.”
Leonard B.
NVOCC Owner
“Their service is exceptional. Our FMC‑48 bond was filed the same day, keeping our license active.”
Carla J.
Ocean Freight Forwarder
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