MSC wins first-ever US complaint about congestion fees

Posted on October 6, 2023   |  

The US Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has ruled in favor of MSC in a dispute regarding congestion charges.

A company called SOFi Paper Products had expressed concerns about MSC's $1,000 congestion surcharge.

The FMC rejected the complaint, concluding that it did not violate the rules of the Shipping Act.

The commission determined that the surcharge was not akin to a detention-and-demurrage fee.

Inadequate evidence was found to substantiate claims of MSC violating property handling regulations.

While most commissioners supported the dismissal, one dissented from the decision.