FMC launches investigation into ocean carriers' chassis restrictions affecting truckers' choices, following a 2024 ruling on shipping practices.
The Federal Maritime Commission has opened a new investigation into ocean carrier limits on truckers' chassis choice, reports New York's Journal of Commerce.
The probe follows a 2024 ruling that shippers contracting their own truckers must be free to choose chassis providers. The FMC stated it will take 60 days of public comments on whether carriers are mandating the use of designated chassis in violation of the Shipping Act.
The agency is examining practices at Chicago and Memphis rail ramps and ports, including Savannah, Los Angeles, and Long Beach. It is also reviewing how the Pool of Pools in Southern California distinguishes between carrier and merchant haulage containers and coordinates billing.
Robert Loya of the Harbor Trucking Association noted that some merchant haulage contracts include chassis at no cost, forcing truckers to use carrier-designated equipment. He warned that this leads to wasted miles, higher costs, and gate fees for storing Pool of Pools chassis.
A Tennessee drayage executive mentioned that inland rail chassis pools face shortages during high demand, causing delays and mis-mounts of containers onto incorrect chassis. He added that what appears to be a free chassis often results in added costs and inefficiencies.
The FMC is already investigating compliance with a cease-and-desist order from its 2024 ruling against the Ocean Carrier Equipment Management Association. OCEMA did not respond to requests for comment on the new probe.
