FMC tells carriers: Congestion charges only apply after 30 days notice

CARRIERS must notify US regulatory authorities of port congestion surcharges 30 days before they or their agents receive the cargo, said the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC).

The FMC notice to trade comes in the wake of inquiries about surcharges carriers have filed to take effect if east and Gulf coasts dock strike takes place, fears now relieved after a 90-truce was signed by the employers and the International Longshoremen's Association.

Unless a waiver or an exemption is obtained, changes to common carrier tariff rules, including surcharges, must be filed at least 30 days before the receipt of cargo, said the FMC. "Cargo received by the carrier prior to publication or effectiveness of a new tariff surcharge would not be subject to such charge," it said.