Which entity regulates regularly-scheduled ocean carriers serving U.S. ports?

The correct answer is the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), as it is the agency specifically tasked with overseeing and regulating ocean transportation services in the U.S. This includes ensuring fair competition among international shipping companies, protecting the interests of U.S. exporters and importers, and enforcing shipping laws to promote efficiency and reliability in maritime trade.

The importance of the FMC lies in its role in managing and licensing ocean carriers, which directly impacts the weekly schedules and service patterns of these carriers at U.S. ports. The FMC ensures compliance with regulations regarding rate publishing, service contracts, and other operational practices, thus maintaining order and fair practices within the industry.

Other entities mentioned fulfill different functions. The Department of Transportation focuses on the broader spectrum of transportation policy and infrastructure across various modes, rather than specifically regulating ocean carriers. U.S. Customs and Border Protection primarily deals with customs enforcement and border protection, not with the regulation of maritime carriers. The International Maritime Organization is a global body that sets standards for shipping practices but does not have regulatory authority over U.S. ocean carriers specifically, as its influence is more focused on international maritime safety and prevention of marine pollution.