Inchcape Shipping Services (ISS) has expanded its presence in the US logistics market following the launch of a new Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) service, enabled by the company’s recent receipt of an Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) licence from the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC).
The new licence authorises ISS to operate as a licensed NVOCC for cargo moving to and from the United States, significantly broadening the company’s ocean freight capabilities and strengthening its position within the international shipping and logistics sector.
As a licensed NVOCC, ISS can now act as a contractual carrier on behalf of customers, issuing its own House Bills of Lading, consolidating cargo shipments and negotiating directly with ocean carriers. This allows the company to secure vessel space and competitive freight rates while providing customers with greater flexibility and control over their supply chains.
According to ISS, the new service is designed to support a broad range of customers, including importers, exporters, freight forwarders and overseas logistics partners that require a reliable and compliant US-based shipping partner. The offering includes both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) services across major US trade routes, backed by direct relationships with leading ocean carriers and end-to-end accountability under an FMC-regulated framework.
Irem Gokmen, Regional CEO Americas at Inchcape Shipping Services, described the achievement as an important milestone for both the company and its customers. She said the licence demonstrates ISS’s commitment to maintaining high standards of compliance, transparency and customer service while providing shippers with more competitive and flexible options for moving cargo into and out of the United States.
The launch comes at a time when supply chain resilience, regulatory compliance and access to reliable ocean freight capacity remain key priorities for cargo owners. By operating as a licensed NVOCC, ISS is able to offer customers additional supply chain solutions while assuming greater responsibility for cargo movements throughout the shipping process.
Obtaining an FMC Ocean Transportation Intermediary licence requires companies to demonstrate financial responsibility, regulatory expertise and operational readiness. ISS said its successful application reflects continued investment in compliance systems, infrastructure and service capabilities.
Gerard Bradley, Director Americas Liner at ISS, noted that customers increasingly seek trusted logistics partners capable of navigating the complexities of international shipping. He said the FMC licence represents more than a regulatory requirement, serving as a clear indication of reliability and professionalism in the market.
