Are Your Carrier Contracts Bad? Why Today’s Shipping Law Changes Mean You Need a Review

The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) just flipped the script on carrier leverage with the 2024 final rule on detention and demurrage billing. If your carrier contracts haven’t been updated to reflect these massive regulatory shifts, you are likely overpaying for non-compliant invoices.

The New Standard for Billing

Under the latest FMC mandate, every detention and demurrage invoice must now include 13 specific data elements to be legally enforceable. This includes precise start and end dates for "free time" and the specific tariff or contract provision authorizing the charge. If a single item is missing or inaccurate, you are no longer legally obligated to pay that bill. For growing brands using a 3PL Maryland partner, this is a major opportunity to reclaim capital lost to "junk fees."

Enforcement and "Unreasonable Refusal"

Beyond billing, the implementation of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act (OSRA) 2022 has entered its high-enforcement phase. Carriers can no longer "unreasonably refuse" to deal or negotiate with shippers for vessel space. This shift empowers shippers to fight back against arbitrary export booking denials. At our Glen Burnie warehouse, we’ve seen how proper documentation of these interactions can save thousands in potential dispute costs.

Scaling with a Compliant Partner

As a Hazmat certified 3PL and provider of food-grade warehouse space, Lanta Logistics specializes in navigating these regulatory minefields. Whether you need Mid-Atlantic fulfillment or complex 4PL orchestration, your partner must ensure your supply chain remains transparent. We don't just move boxes; we audit the paperwork that protects your bottom line.

Stop letting "fee drift" erode your margins: audit your carrier contracts against the latest FMC standards or partner with Lanta Logistics to automate your compliance.