NVOCC Companies Explained: A Comprehensive Overview

Author

Reads 1K

A cargo ship named Sorrento carrying colorful containers on the open sea.
Credit: pexels.com, A cargo ship named Sorrento carrying colorful containers on the open sea.

NVOCC companies are a type of logistics company that plays a crucial role in international trade. They are responsible for managing and executing the movement of goods from one country to another.

An NVOCC company acts as a non-vessel operating common carrier, which means they don't own their own ships but instead charter vessels to transport cargo. This allows them to offer a wide range of services to their customers.

One of the key benefits of using an NVOCC company is that they can provide a single point of contact for all logistics needs, making it easier for customers to manage their shipments.

NVOCC Companies

NVOCC Companies offer a valuable service to businesses that require ocean freight transportation. They operate as carriers, arranging the shipment of goods from one point to another despite not owning or operating the vessels themselves.

NVOCCs assume responsibility for the safe and timely delivery of the cargo they handle, issuing their own bills of lading as contracts of carriage between the NVOCC and the shipper. This means they are legally responsible for the cargo from the point of origin until it reaches its destination.

Photograph of stacked shipping containers at a bustling Hamburg port terminal.
Credit: pexels.com, Photograph of stacked shipping containers at a bustling Hamburg port terminal.

Some NVOCCs offer a comprehensive suite of services akin to freight forwarders, handling everything from customs clearance and warehousing to insurance and distribution. Key features of NVOCCs include a single point of contact, consolidated volume and competitive rates, and expanded service range.

Here are some key services offered by NVOCCs:

  • Single point of contact: Dealing with one entity streamlines communication and simplifies the shipping process.
  • Consolidated volume & competitive rates: Leverage their combined volume to negotiate better rates with ocean carriers.
  • Expanded service range: Like freight forwarders, they offer a wide range of services.
  • Act as carriers: Sign contracts directly with ocean carriers and take responsibility for your cargo.
  • Manage cargo movement: Handle delivery and receipt like your own goods.
  • Issue paperwork: Provide various shipping documents, including the House Bill of Lading.
  • Handle payments: Arrange port-to-port transportation fees and other charges.
  • Consolidate & deconsolidate: Group smaller shipments into containers or break them down at destination.

What is an NVOCC?

An NVOCC, or Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier, is a company that specializes in the consolidation and transportation of ocean freight. They play a crucial role in the international shipping industry.

As carriers, NVOCCs assume responsibility for the safe and timely delivery of the cargo they handle. They issue their own bills of lading, which serve as contracts of carriage between the NVOCC and the shipper.

NVOCCs operate as carriers, arranging the shipment of goods from one point to another despite not owning or operating the vessels themselves. This means they don't have direct control over the vessels, but they still have to ensure the cargo is delivered on time.

While the core focus of NVOCCs is on providing reliable and cost-effective ocean freight transportation, some may offer additional services that overlap with those provided by freight forwarders. These services can include customs clearance, documentation, and inland transportation.

Crystal Global Shipping

A bustling shipping port with colorful stacked containers and numerous cranes under a clear blue sky.
Credit: pexels.com, A bustling shipping port with colorful stacked containers and numerous cranes under a clear blue sky.

Crystal Global Shipping is a logistics company with almost a decade of experience in forwarding and warehousing. They offer flexible and custom-made solutions at a viable rate.

One of the key features of Crystal Global Shipping is their ability to use optimized routes, which helps reduce costs and increase efficiency. This is particularly useful for businesses that need to move large quantities of goods.

Crystal Global Shipping understands that your business is about manufacturing, buying, or selling, and their teams will take care of all your company logistics. This allows you to focus on your core business while leaving logistics problems in the hands of experts.

Here are some benefits of using Crystal Global Shipping:

  • Flexibility and customization: They offer tailored solutions to meet your specific needs.
  • Cost-effectiveness: They use optimized routes to reduce costs and increase efficiency.
  • Expertise: Their teams have experience in forwarding and warehousing, ensuring your logistics needs are met.

Ravian International Agencies

Ravian International Agencies is a seasoned player in the NVOCC scene, boasting an impressive four decades of experience in the industry.

They have a large fleet of containers, specifically 2000 TEUs, which is a testament to their commitment to providing reliable services.

Aerial Shot of Cargo Ship on Sea
Credit: pexels.com, Aerial Shot of Cargo Ship on Sea

Their expertise extends to operating various types of containers, including dry, open tops, flat racks, and tank containers.

With a presence in key locations such as the far east, the Indian subcontinent, and Dubai, Ravian International Agencies is well-positioned to cater to a diverse range of customers.

They also have an office in Dubai, which serves as a hub for their operations in the region.

Definitions

NVOCCs are Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers that specialize in ocean freight transportation, arranging shipments from one point to another without owning or operating the vessels themselves.

Freight forwarders, on the other hand, are like "all-in-one shipping concierges" that offer a wide range of services beyond ocean freight, including inland transportation, storage solutions, customs clearance, and trade support.

NVOCCs primarily focus on "enhanced" ocean freight solutions, leveraging their expertise and consolidated buying power to secure competitive rates, making them wholesale buyers of container space on cargo ships.

Credit: youtube.com, Who is NVOCC? NVOCC Explained! - Non-Vessel Operating common carrier or Co loader - Daily Logistics

Some NVOCCs, like Dimerco, have expanded their services to include air freight, inland transportation, customs clearance support, and other services, blurring the lines between NVOCCs and freight forwarders.

Here's a comparison of NVOCCs and freight forwarders:

By understanding the definitions of NVOCCs and freight forwarders, you can better navigate the complex world of international shipping and make informed decisions about your logistics needs.

Shipping and Logistics

NVOCCs specialize in ocean freight transportation, offering a cost-effective solution for businesses of all sizes. They assume responsibility for the cargo from the point of origin until it reaches its destination.

NVOCCs can provide a range of services, including customs clearance, documentation, and inland transportation, although these services may vary among providers. Some NVOCCs may also offer air freight transportation, expanding their logistics solutions to cater to clients with diverse shipping needs.

A key benefit of working with an NVOCC is the single point of contact, which streamlines communication and simplifies the shipping process. They also offer consolidated volume and competitive rates, leveraging their combined volume to negotiate better rates with ocean carriers.

Shipping & Logistics Services

Workers operating a forklift in a shipping container yard at Praia port, Cabo Verde.
Credit: pexels.com, Workers operating a forklift in a shipping container yard at Praia port, Cabo Verde.

Shipping and logistics services are a crucial part of the global supply chain. They involve the coordination and management of the movement of goods from one place to another.

Freight forwarders excel in securing transportation and orchestrating the full spectrum of logistics, from customs clearance and cargo insurance to pre-shipment inspections and multimodal transport solutions. Their expertise in managing complex international logistics networks provides businesses with end-to-end shipping solutions.

Freight forwarders often have a wider reach to various carriers around the world and can offer services across different modes of transportation, including air and land. This makes them a versatile choice for businesses looking for a comprehensive logistics solution.

Some freight forwarders offer a wide range of services, including customs clearance, documentation, and inland transportation. They can also act as carriers, sign contracts directly with ocean carriers, and take responsibility for the cargo.

Key services provided by freight forwarders include:

  • Customs clearance and documentation
  • Inland transportation and warehousing
  • Cargo insurance and risk management
  • Pre-shipment inspections and quality control
  • Multimodal transport solutions

NVOCCs (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers) also offer shipping and logistics services, but their primary focus is on ocean freight transportation. They secure space on vessels and use their expertise and buying power to negotiate competitive rates for bulk space on specific trade routes.

Large cargo ship loaded with colorful containers on a calm sea under a clear sky.
Credit: pexels.com, Large cargo ship loaded with colorful containers on a calm sea under a clear sky.

Some NVOCCs offer additional services, including air freight transportation, customs clearance, and inland transportation. However, their primary expertise lies in ocean freight, and they often have strong relationships with specific ocean carriers.

While freight forwarders and NVOCCs share some similarities, freight forwarders are often a better choice for businesses with diverse shipping needs. They can offer a wider range of services and have a more extensive network of carriers.

In contrast, NVOCCs are often a better choice for businesses with a high volume of ocean freight shipments. They can offer cost-effective solutions and negotiate better rates with ocean carriers.

Ultimately, the choice between a freight forwarder and an NVOCC depends on the specific needs of your business.

Shipner Shipping

Shipner Shipping has been around since 2018, making them a relatively new player in the logistics industry.

Their team of professionals has a combined experience of over 20 years, giving them the expertise to handle complex logistics needs.

Top-view Photography of Cargo Ship With Intermodal Containers
Credit: pexels.com, Top-view Photography of Cargo Ship With Intermodal Containers

Shipner Shipping aims to provide high-quality and reliable services to their customers, with a focus on customer satisfaction.

Their innovative approach has earned them a reputation for delivering customized solutions to meet the unique needs of their clients.

With a strong relationship with all carriers, Shipner Shipping can offer cost-effective and value-added services to their customers.

Their team of leaders believes that their professional experience, combined with extensive knowledge and personalized services, is the key to their success.

Shipner Shipping's own fleet of containers and strong professional background enhance their confidence in overcoming day-to-day challenges.

Their talented team has a rich knowledge of all products and can transform detailed analysis into tangible logistics solutions for their valued clients.

Main Differences Between Forwarders

When you're shipping goods internationally, it's essential to understand the role of freight forwarders and NVOCCs. A freight forwarder acts as an intermediary between you and the carrier, arranging transportation across various modes, including ocean, air, rail, and road.

Credit: youtube.com, Freight Broker Q&A - What's the difference between freight broker and freight forwarder?

Freight forwarders assist with documentation and customs clearance, and provide a wider range of logistics services on behalf of their clients. However, this can involve juggling multiple documents and navigating different communication channels.

On the other hand, NVOCCs enter into direct contracts with shippers to transport containers themselves. This means they assume the role of “carrier,” taking on greater contractual responsibility for your cargo.

NVOCCs provide a single point of contact, simplifying communications and providing a clear, binding legal document outlining the terms of your shipment. In the US, NVOCCs must be registered with the FMC and comply with specific requirements for issuing HBL.

Here are the key differences between freight forwarders and NVOCCs:

  • Freight forwarders act as representatives, booking and managing cargo using existing service contracts with ocean carriers.
  • NVOCCs enter into direct contracts with shippers to transport containers themselves, assuming greater contractual responsibility for the cargo.

International Shipping

International shipping can be a complex and time-consuming process, but with the help of Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers (NVOCCs), it doesn't have to be. NVOCCs operate as carriers, arranging the shipment of goods from one point to another despite not owning or operating the vessels themselves.

Large cargo ship with colorful metal containers floating on rippling water of ocean under cloudy blue sky in daylight
Credit: pexels.com, Large cargo ship with colorful metal containers floating on rippling water of ocean under cloudy blue sky in daylight

NVOCCs assume responsibility for the safe and timely delivery of the cargo they handle, issuing their own bills of lading that serve as contracts of carriage between the NVOCC and the shipper. This means that NVOCCs are legally responsible for the cargo from the point of origin until it reaches its destination.

NVOCCs can help shippers secure less-than-container load (LCL) shipping by consolidating cargo from multiple shippers, offering cost-effective transportation options for businesses with smaller shipping volumes. However, it's worth noting that NVOCCs often have strong relationships with certain ocean carriers, which can provide benefits such as more consistent rates and schedules.

Some key features of NVOCCs include a single point of contact, consolidated volume and competitive rates, an expanded service range, and the ability to act as carriers and manage cargo movement. They can also issue paperwork, handle payments, consolidate and deconsolidate shipments, and provide a wide range of services similar to freight forwarders.

Here are some key services that NVOCCs can provide:

  • Single point of contact
  • Consolidated volume & competitive rates
  • Expanded service range
  • Act as carriers
  • Manage cargo movement
  • Issue paperwork
  • Handle payments
  • Consolidate & deconsolidate

NVOCCs are an essential component of the international shipping landscape, serving as carriers that specialize in the consolidation and transportation of ocean freight. By offering cost-effective solutions and assuming responsibility for the cargo they handle, NVOCCs enable businesses of all sizes to participate in global trade and expand their reach in international markets.

Insurance and Compliance

Cargo Ship Near Port
Credit: pexels.com, Cargo Ship Near Port

Insurance and Compliance is a critical aspect of being an NVOCC company. Magaya Customs Compliance is an ACE-certified ABI solution that provides the features NVOCCs need to automate their compliance workflows.

Having real-time alerts is a game-changer, allowing NVOCCs to stay on top of important shipment updates and keep their cargo moving. Easily integrating with Magaya Supply Chain or a transportation management system of choice is a huge efficiency booster.

Insurance vs. Cargo Insurance

As your business expands globally, you'll need to ensure the safety of your products during transit. Ensuring the safety of your products during transit is non-negotiable.

Freight insurance and cargo insurance are two types of insurance that serve different purposes. Freight insurance typically covers the cost of the goods themselves, while cargo insurance covers the goods being transported.

If your business operates in the global market, you may need to consider the risks associated with transporting goods across borders. Ensuring the safety of your products during transit is non-negotiable.

The main difference between freight insurance and cargo insurance is the scope of coverage. Freight insurance usually includes coverage for the cost of the goods, while cargo insurance covers the goods being transported.

See what others are reading: Business Plans for Trucking Companies

Customs Compliance

A broker with glasses sits confidently in front of a laptop in a modern conference room.
Credit: pexels.com, A broker with glasses sits confidently in front of a laptop in a modern conference room.

Customs compliance is a crucial aspect of ensuring your cargo reaches its destination safely and efficiently. Magaya Customs Compliance is an ACE-certified ABI solution that automates compliance workflows.

Real-time alerts enable you to stay on top of important shipment updates, keeping your cargo moving.

Shared Responsibilities

In the shipping industry, NVOCCs and freight forwarders share similar responsibilities, but with some key differences. Both entities act as facilitators, ensuring your goods reach their destination.

They handle tasks like booking cargo space on vessels, preparing and processing shipping documents, coordinating customs clearance, and arranging inland transportation.

These tasks are crucial in getting your goods from point A to point B. In the US, both NVOCCs and freight forwarders fall under the Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) category, requiring FMC registration.

This means they must comply with the same regulations. However, NVOCCs have additional compliance obligations regarding issuing their House Bill of Lading (HBL).

Here's a breakdown of their shared responsibilities:

  • Booking cargo space on vessels.
  • Preparing and processing shipping documents.
  • Coordinating customs clearance.
  • Arranging inland transportation.

It's essential to understand these core functions and specific regulations to choose the ideal shipping partner for your international needs.

Company Profiles

Container Ship Docked at Hamburg Terminal
Credit: pexels.com, Container Ship Docked at Hamburg Terminal

Kuehne + Nagel is a leading global logistics company that offers a wide range of services, including sea and air freight, contract logistics, and more.

Kuehne + Nagel was founded in 1890 by August Kuehne and Friedrich Nagel in Bremen, Germany.

The company has a strong presence in the Asia-Pacific region, with a network of over 200 locations across the region.

DB Schenker is another major NVOC company that provides transportation and logistics services to businesses worldwide.

DB Schenker was founded in 1899 as a German railway company and has since grown to become one of the world's largest logistics companies.

DB Schenker's services include air and ocean freight, contract logistics, and supply chain management.

DHL Global Forwarding is a leading provider of air and ocean freight services, with a strong presence in the Asia-Pacific region.

DHL Global Forwarding was founded in 1969 and has since grown to become one of the world's largest logistics companies.

Blue and Red Cargo Ship on Dock
Credit: pexels.com, Blue and Red Cargo Ship on Dock

DHL Global Forwarding's services include air and ocean freight, customs clearance, and supply chain management.

Sinotrans is a Chinese logistics company that offers a wide range of services, including sea and air freight, contract logistics, and more.

Sinotrans was founded in 1950 and has since grown to become one of China's largest logistics companies.

Sinotrans' services include air and ocean freight, customs clearance, and supply chain management.

Choosing an NVOCC

Choosing an NVOCC can be a daunting task, but understanding the key factors can make the process easier. Consider the services offered by the NVOCC, including freight forwarding, customs clearance, and warehousing.

Look for an NVOCC with a strong track record of reliability and a good reputation in the industry. According to the article, Ocean Network Express (ONE) has a reputation for being one of the most reliable NVOCCs.

Partner Selection

Choosing the right NVOCC can be a daunting task, but it's essential to consider your specific requirements. The optimal choice between NVOCCs and freight forwarders hinges on your needs.

Credit: youtube.com, Choosing a Dray Provider through a NVOCC

Some NVOCCs, like Dimerco, also operate as full-fledged freight forwarders, offering the convenience and single point of contact of an NVOCC along with the flexibility and broad logistics expertise of a traditional freight forwarder.

If you're tired of juggling multiple providers, look for an NVOCC that can provide complete control over your shipment, from booking to delivery, while taking full responsibility for the ocean leg as your carrier.

Dimerco, for example, offers this kind of comprehensive service, allowing you to manage your shipment with ease and peace of mind.

Forwarder vs. NVOCC

As you consider choosing an NVOCC, it's essential to understand the difference between a freight forwarder and an NVOCC. Freight forwarders act as intermediaries between shippers and carriers, arranging transportation across various modes and assisting with documentation and customs clearance.

NVOCCs, on the other hand, operate as carriers, focusing primarily on ocean freight, and issue their own bills of lading. They assume a level of liability for the cargo they transport and provide a single point of contact for communication.

Sailing Ship on Sea during Daytime
Credit: pexels.com, Sailing Ship on Sea during Daytime

One of the key differences between freight forwarders and NVOCCs is their approach to contracting and ownership. Freight forwarders rely on pre-established agreements with ocean carriers, while NVOCCs enter into direct contracts with shippers to transport containers themselves.

Here's a comparison of freight forwarders and NVOCCs:

In the US, NVOCCs must be registered with the FMC and comply with specific requirements for issuing HBL, which simplifies communications and provides a clear, binding legal document outlining the terms of your shipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a forwarder and a NVOCC?

Freight forwarders act as agents, while NVOCCs (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers) handle logistics without owning containers or warehouses. This key difference affects how they operate and the services they provide

Is DHL an NVOCC?

Yes, DHL Global Forwarding operates its own Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) called Danmar Lines. This means DHL issues its own bills of lading as a carrier.

Kristin Waelchi

Senior Writer

Kristin Waelchi is a skilled writer with a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling. With a background in research and analysis, she brings a unique perspective to her writing, delving deep into complex topics and shedding light on the intricacies of the world around us. Kristin's expertise lies in crafting engaging articles that inform and educate readers on a wide range of subjects, including industrial facilities.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.