In order to move goods across the globe, numerous entities take part in international shipping and logistics. An example of such an entity is an NVOCC or a non-vessel operating common carrier. In this section, we will explain what is NVOCC in the forwarding industry and its significance in the shipping industry.
What is NVOCC?
NVOCC stands for "Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier." It's like a middleman in the shipping world. Unlike big shipping companies with their own ships, NVOCCs don't own vessels. Instead, they help move stuff from one place to another, especially between different countries.
Here's how they work:
• They collect and group cargo together.
• They take care of the paperwork.
• They provide important services to make sure shipping goes smoothly.
Importance of NVOCC in the Shipping Industry
NVOCC, in the shipping industry, plays an important role. Their advantages include cost-effective shipping, simplified logistics, and flexibility in cargo handling. In addition, NVOCCs make international trade more accessible to businesses of all sizes, helping them expand their markets and reach global customers.
As we delve deeper into this guide, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of NVOCC operations, regulations, and their impact on global trade.
NVOCC Licensing and Regulation
NVOCCs have to follow certain rules and get permission to do their job. Here's what you need to know:
Licensing Requirements: NVOCCs must get special licenses or permits to operate. These licenses show that they are allowed to work in the shipping business.
Regulatory Bodies: There are organizations and government agencies that watch over NVOCCs to make sure they follow the rules. They keep things fair and safe.
Compliance and Rules: NVOCCs need to play by the rules. They must follow laws and regulations to protect the cargo they handle and the people they work with.
Licensing and regulations might sound boring, but they're important. They make sure that NVOCCs are trustworthy and responsible when it comes to handling your stuff.These licenses and registrations serve as important validations, confirming that you're well-versed in the industry's regulations and practices, ultimately ensuring the smooth operation of shipping and logistics activities.
NVOCC vs. Freight Forwarder
Understanding the Differences:
When it comes to NVOCCs and freight forwarders, they might seem similar, but they have distinct roles:
NVOCC (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier):
1. NVOCCs primarily handle ocean shipping.
2. They often lease space on ships and consolidate cargo from multiple customers into containers.
3. NVOCCs can issue their own bills of lading.
4. They can set prices for shipping services and make contracts with ocean carriers.
5. They usually work with international cargo.
Freight Forwarder:
1. Freight forwarders manage the entire logistics process, including land, air, and sea transport.
2. They don't lease space on ships but can help with all modes of transportation.
3. Freight forwarders typically don't issue their own bills of lading.
4. They arrange shipments and handle documentation.
5. They work with various types of cargo and can be involved in domestic and international shipping.
What are NVOCC charges?
NVOCC charges can differ between ports and are influenced by the specific shipping line you use. These charges cover various services, including:
Terminal Handling: These are fees related to the handling of cargo at the terminal, where it's loaded onto or offloaded from the ship.
Seal Charges: These charges are associated with securing the cargo containers with seals to prevent tampering or unauthorized access.
BL (Bill of Lading) Charges: These fees are for the creation and processing of the Bill of Lading document, which is essential in the shipping process.
Delivery Order Charges: These charges are linked to the preparation of delivery orders, which instruct where and to whom cargo should be delivered.
Survey Charges: Survey charges are incurred when cargo inspections or surveys are required, typically for assessing the condition of goods or resolving disputes.
Cleaning and Washing Charges: These charges cover the cleaning and washing of cargo containers to ensure they meet cleanliness and hygiene standards.
It's important to note that NVOCC charges can vary, so it's a good practice to understand and discuss these charges with your chosen NVOCC or shipping line to ensure transparency and cost clarity for your specific shipping needs.
NVOCC in the Bill of Lading
When you see NVOCC in the bill of lading, it means that NVOCC is like a shipping company. They're in charge of moving the goods and keeping them safe. They also make their own Bill of Lading paper to keep track of the stuff they're moving. This is often used when they put many people's things into one big container to make shipping easier. So, NVOCC in the bill of lading means they're the ones taking care of your stuff during the journey.
STANDARD CONTAINERS
Maritime shipping containers are perfect means for transporting and storing any kind of goods. The containers can serve for decades, which reduces the cost of storing and transporting goods. Dry cargo containers are made of reliable materials to ensure complete safety of goods. Apart from that, the containers may be used as exhibition pavilions, coffee shops, salons, offices, and mobile sales points.
Special containers
Special containers are made to meet specific requirements, i.e. which exceed the dimensions and features of standard shipping containers. They can be used for a variety of purposes, from transporting oversized or temperature-sensitive cargo to creating multi-purpose spaces.
NVOCC vs. freight forwarder: how to choose?
Once you understand the difference between an NVOCC and a freight forwarder, it’s not hard to choose which kind of intermediary fits most snugly into your supply chain puzzle. The solution is to work with an NVOCC, like S.G.G., whose portfolio includes a full range of freight forwarding services. Then you’ll get the best of both worlds. You’ll gain a partner that can:
look across the range of available sailings from multiple steamship lines
get you a competitive rate
issue its own bill of lading
arrange for reliable ground transportation
provide any other logistics services you require
To forge a partnership with an NVOCC that offers all the logistics services you need for a successful door-to-door shipment, contact the experts at S.G.G. .