Is a U.S. OTI license necessary for forwarding type services when associated with ocean cargo via a U.S. port?

A U.S. Ocean Transport Intermediary (OTI) license is indeed necessary for forwarding type services associated with ocean cargo via a U.S. port. This requirement is established by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), which regulates ocean shipping. An OTI can act as either an Ocean Freight Forwarder or a Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC), and obtaining this license demonstrates that the entity is compliant with various legal, financial, and liability requirements outlined by the FMC.

The licensing ensures that the forwarding service providers meet standards that protect both shippers and consumers, ensuring that the shipments are handled properly and efficiently while adhering to U.S. regulations. This is essential for the integrity of international shipping and trade, including the collection of rates, handling of documents, and ensuring proper customs compliance.

In contrast, the other options present scenarios that do not align with the regulations set forth by the FMC regarding any type of forwarding service dealing with ocean cargo, regardless of cargo type or whether shipments are inland or not. The category of cargo or the specific nature of the shipment does not exempt the forwarding agents from the need for a license; the licensing requirement is uniform across all ocean cargo forwarded via U.S. ports.