The US Federal Maritime Commission has launched a second investigation into whether ocean carriers are unlawfully restricting truckers’ and shippers’ ability to choose chassis—reigniting along-running dispute with implications for cost transparency, inland congestion, and supply chain efficiency.
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has initiated a renewed investigation into chassis restrictions imposedby ocean carriers, following a 2024 ruling affirming that shippers using merchant haulage may select their own chassis providers.
This second probe reflects concerns that carrier practices maystill be limiting competition—despite the earlier cease-and-desistorder remaining under review.
The investigation centers on both coastal gateways andinland rail ramps, including:
The FMC is examining whether carriers designate single chassis providers, whether sufficient equipment is available during peak demand, and how billing distinctions are handled between merchant and carrier haulage containers.
Industry representatives argue that mandated chassis use creates inefficiencies:
While some contracts include “no-cost” chassis provisions, drayage operators say the hidden operational costs ultimately fall ontruckers.
Although the probe is US-focused, the implications are global.Chassis availability and choice directly affect:
As regulators worldwide push for greater transparency andfair access in logistics services, the FMC’s renewed scrutiny highlights a broader shift: infrastructure control is becoming a regulatory issue, not just an operational one.
The FMC has opened a 60-day public comment window, signaling potential enforcement or rule clarification ahead. Forshippers, carriers, and logistics providers, the outcome could redefine how inland equipment is sourced—and who ultimately bearsthe cost.
Source:https://www.joc.com/article/fmc-takes-second-look-at-ocean-carrier-limits-on-chassis-choice-6157601
