# Federal Maritime Commission (FMC-48) Surety Bonds for Ocean Transportation Intermediaries

Source: https://a1suretybonds.com/surety-bonds/nvocc-oti-surety-bonds

## Key facts

- Term: 1 year
- Apply online: https://a1suretybonds.com/application/index/8650/0

*A1SuretyBonds.com - Your Trusted Partner for FMC-48 Bonds!*

If you are a **Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC)** or an **Ocean Freight Forwarder (OFF)**, the **Federal Maritime Commission (FMC)** requires you to secure an **FMC-48 Bond**, also known as an OTI License, NVOCC or OFF Surety Bond. These surety bonds are a **mandatory licensing requirement**, protecting shippers and ensuring compliance with U.S. maritime law.

**Apply Now! ** *and get your FMC Bond issued fast, at competitive rates.*

### What Is an FMC Bond and who needs it?

An **FMC Bond ** is a surety bond required by the **Federal Maritime Commission (** **FMC)** for companies operating as:

**Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers (NVOCCs)** – Companies that arrange ocean freight but do not own vessels. US Based and Foreign entities must comply.

**Ocean Freight Forwarders (OFFs)** – Agents who arrange and manage cargo shipments for exporters to international destinations.

The FMC-48 Bond ensures that licensed companies follow federal regulations, meet financial obligations, and protect shippers from losses due to fraud, mismanagement, or non-performance.

Without a valid **Federal Maritime Commission Bond**, your license application will be denied, and you cannot legally operate in the United States.

Applicants for OTI license bond must be a partner, officer or sole proprietor of the applying business

**Reference:** Federal Maritime Commission – Licensing & Bonds

### FMC Required Bond Amounts

The FMC sets bond requirements based on the type of operation:

**U.S. NVOCCs:** $75,000

*Additional $10,000 for each unincorporated branch office in the United States performing NVOCC services. (call for details)*

- Additional $21,000 optional rider is needed for NVOCC’s serving in the US – China Trade to cover Chinese government financial responsibility requirements. (call for details)* **
**

**Foreign NVOCCs:** $150,000 FMC bond

**Ocean Freight Forwarders (OFFs):** $50,000

*Additional $10,000 for each unincorporated branch office in the United States performing ocean freight forwarder services. (call for details)*

These bond amounts are fixed by regulation and must be in place at all times to maintain your FMC license.

### How Much Do FMC Bonds Cost?

While the FMC sets the required bond amount, your actual **bond premium** depends on your qualifications.

Typical premiums range from just under **1% of the bond amount annually**.

| FMC Bond Type | Required Bond Amount | Typical Premium Range |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Non-Vessel Operating Common Carries** (NVOCC) - U.S. Entity | $75,000 | Less than 1% for qualifying applicants* |
| **Non-Vessel Operating Common Carries** (NVOCC) - Foreign entity | $150,000 | Less than 1% for qualifying applicants* |
| Ocean Freight Forwarder (OFF) | $50,000 | Less than 1% for qualifying applicants* |

**Rates vary based on creditworthiness and financial strength of the applicants.*

**Apply Now** to see your exact FMC Bond rate and lock in fast approval.

### Why Are FMC Bonds Required?

The FMC requires bonds to:

Protect shippers from financial loss or fraud.

Ensure compliance with [46 U.S.C. Chapter 409](https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/46/subtitle-IV/part-A/chapter-409) and [46 C.F.R. Part 515](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-46/chapter-IV/subchapter-B/part-515).

Provide financial recourse if an NVOCC or OFF violates federal maritime law.

Support ethical practices in international shipping and forwarding.

An FMC Bond demonstrates that you are a licensed, trustworthy, financially stable operator, giving clients confidence in your services.

### How to Apply for an FMC Bond

Getting your **Federal Maritime Commission Bond** is a straightforward process:

**Complete our Application** – Provide your company and owner personal information.

**Underwriting Review** – The surety evaluates your eligibility and provides a quote.

**Review your bond quote and decide to accept / pay for your bond ** - provide signed indemnity agreement and payment

**Your bond is issued!** the surety company will file your bond directly with the Federal Maritime Commission.

**Stay Compliant** – Renew your bond annually to keep your FMC license active.

Many FMC Bonds are approved same day or as little as **24 hours**.

**Apply Now ** *and get your FMC Bond quickly and easily.*

### Why Choose A1SuretyBonds.com for Your FMC Bond?

**Fast Approvals:** Many FMC Bonds issued within one business day.

**Competitive Premiums:** Rates less than 1% of the bond amount.

**Industry Experts:** We specialize in FMC Bonds and understand FMC regulations.

**Trusted by Professionals:** Thousands of freight forwarders and NVOCCs rely on us.

**Apply Now — ** *secure your FMC Bond today* **.**

### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**1. ** **What is an FMC Bond?**

An FMC Bond, also called a Federal Maritime Commission Bond or FMC-48, is a surety bond required for NVOCCs and OFFs to obtain an FMC license.

**2. How much is an FMC Bond?**

Premiums usually range from just below **1% to 5% of the bond amount ** depending on the applicant’s creditworthiness and financial strength.

**3. Do foreign NVOCCs need a bond?**

Yes. Foreign NVOCCs must secure a **$150,000 FMC Bond** to operate legally under FMC jurisdiction.

Ready to apply? Let A1Suretybonds.com help you secure your FMC Bond now.

Are you looking for the [BMC-84 bond for Freight Brokers?](https://a1suretybonds.com/surety-bonds/freight-broker-bond)

OTI Bonds - NVOCC & OFF

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A1 Surety Bonds (The Surety Syndicate, LLC), a nationwide surety bond agency · (800) 737-4880 · info@a1suretybonds.com · https://a1suretybonds.com
Requirements are set by each state or agency and can change; the obligee's current instructions and the law control.