Freight Pulse: New Shipping Law Changes Explained in Under 3 Minutes

Recent shifts in maritime law and FMC enforcement are rewriting the rulebook for shippers. Between the expiration of major Jones Act waivers and new transparency requirements for detention and demurrage (D&D), staying compliant is no longer optional: it’s a bottom-line necessity.

Jones Act Waivers and National Defense

As of June 3, 2026, the Maritime Administration (MARAD) has begun publishing routine voyage reports following the limited Jones Act waiver issued earlier this spring. While this allowed foreign-flag vessels to move domestic cargo during a critical window, that flexibility has tightened. Shippers must now ensure all "domestic" movements via foreign vessels are backed by rigorous CBP Form 1302 filings and advance notifications. Failure to document these movements properly can trigger civil penalties that wipe out any cost savings from the waiver.

FMC Tightens the Screws on D&D

The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) continues its aggressive rollout of OSRA standards. The focus remains on invoice accuracy: carriers are now strictly required to include specific data elements on D&D bills, or the invoice becomes void. This level of accountability is a win for growing brands using Mid-Atlantic fulfillment, but only if your 3PL Maryland partner is auditing those charges in real-time.

Global Compliance: EUDR and MASS Code

On the international front, the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) deadline has shifted to December 30, 2026. This gives shippers more time to verify the origins of timber and palm oil products, but the documentation trail must begin now. Simultaneously, the IMO’s non-mandatory MASS Code for autonomous ships is officially live, signaling a long-term shift toward automated transit that will eventually impact port operations at the Seagirt Marine Terminal.

The Lanta Advantage

Navigating these shifts requires more than just a warehouse; it requires a partner that understands the regulatory landscape. Whether you need a food-grade warehouse for sensitive cargo or a Hazmat certified 3PL to handle complex chemical compliance, Lanta Logistics provides the structured execution your supply chain demands. From our Glen Burnie warehouse to our integrated transportation services, we ensure your freight moves legally and efficiently.

Takeaway: Compliance is the new competitive advantage: don't let regulatory shifts stall your growth; contact Lanta Logistics to audit your supply chain strategy today.