NVOCC bills of lading issued for carriage via a U.S. port are subject to which set of rules?

NVOCC, or Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers, issue bills of lading that are instrumental in international shipping, especially when transportation begins at a U.S. port. The correct answer relates to the application of U.S. COGSA, which stands for the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act. This act is specifically designed to regulate the rights and responsibilities of parties involved in the carriage of goods by sea in international trade.

U.S. COGSA applies to bills of lading issued for transport via U.S. ports, thereby covering aspects such as liability limitations, responsibilities for cargo damage, and the timeframe for filing claims. These regulations provide a framework that governs the legal relationship between shippers, carriers, and consignees, ensuring consistency and protection of parties' interests in maritime transactions.

In contrast, while international shipping laws encompass broader guidelines for various types of shipments globally, they do not specifically address the unique responsibilities of domestic carriers operating from U.S. ports. The Federal Maritime Commission regulations focus on overseeing the activities of NVOCCs and maintaining fair competition rather than prescribing rules for the carriage of goods. Finally, the U.S. Department of Transportation guidelines pertain more to the overall transportation landscape and do not specifically target maritime