Newly granted Ocean Transportation Intermediary license expands the company’s role in US international ocean freight

Inchcape Shipping Services today announced the launch of its new Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) service in the United States. The launch follows the company’s receipt of an Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) license from the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), authorising Inchcape Shipping Services to operate as a licensed NVOCC for cargo moving to and from the US.

The new service marks a significant expansion of Inchcape Shipping Services’ capabilities, allowing the company to act as a contractual carrier on behalf of its customers. As a licensed NVOCC, Inchcape Shipping Services will issue its own House Bills of Lading, consolidate shipments, and negotiate directly with ocean carriers to secure space and competitive rates for shippers of all sizes.

“Becoming an FMC-licensed NVOCC is a major milestone for Inchcape Shipping Services and for the customers we serve,” said Irem Gokmen, Regional CEO Americas of Inchcape Shipping Services. “This license reflects our commitment to operating at the highest standards of compliance, transparency, and service. With our NVOCC offering, we can give shippers more control, more flexibility, and more competitive options for moving cargo to and from the United States.”

What the new NVOCC service offers

The launch enables ISS Marine Services Inc. to provide:

• Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) services across major US trade lanes
• House Bills of Lading issued directly by Inchcape Shipping Services
• Direct relationships with major ocean carriers for reliable space allocation
• End-to-end accountability under an FMC-licensed framework

The service is designed to support importers, exporters, freight forwarders, and overseas agents who require a trusted, US-licensed partner with the operational reach to handle complex international shipments.

Built on regulatory trust

The FMC’s Ocean Transportation Intermediary license is a key credential for any company seeking to operate as an NVOCC in the United States. The licensing process requires applicants to demonstrate financial responsibility, regulatory knowledge, and operational readiness. Inchcape Shipping Services’ successful licensing reflects the company’s investment in compliance, infrastructure, and customer service.

“Our customers expect a partner they can rely on, especially when navigating the complexity of international ocean freight,” added Gerard Bradley, Director Americas Liner. “Being FMC-licensed isn’t just a regulatory checkbox; it’s a signal of trust. We’re proud to bring that trust into a new chapter of service.”