MSC faces stiff $63 million fine amid US regulatory dispute

Posted on April 15, 2024   |  

MSC is potentially facing a $63 million fine in the US due to alleged violations of the Shipping Act.

The US Federal Maritime Commission's Bureau of Enforcement has accused MSC of charging excessive late fees on non-operating reefers and billing unauthorized companies.

MSC allegedly targeted US logistic chain service providers such as non-vessel operating common carriers, ocean freight forwarders, customs brokers, and truckers with unlawful practices.

Among the allegations is MSC's failure to publish non-operating reefer detention and demurrage rates in its US tariff for several years.

MSC has referred to resulting overcharges as "billing errors" but has consistently failed to address the issue.

The dispute involves thousands of contested charges directed at various clients.