Ocean Shipping Chassis Clash: Truckers Fight Back
Published Date: 1/26/2026
Notice
Summary
The Federal Maritime Commission is checking if ocean carriers are unfairly forcing truckers and shippers to use only their chosen chassis providers, which might break the rules. This affects anyone moving cargo by truck from ports and could lead to fairer choices and better prices. If you’re involved, speak up by March 27, 2026, to help shape changes that could save money and improve shipping.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
FMC Investigates Chassis Choice Limits
The Federal Maritime Commission is investigating reports that ocean carriers may be preventing truckers and shippers from negotiating with the chassis provider they choose. The Commission opened the inquiry under its authority to enforce the Shipping Act and is seeking information from shippers, motor carriers, chassis providers, and the public; comments are due March 27, 2026.
Merchant Haulage Negotiation Rights
The Commission notes that for merchant haulage—where truckers or shippers arrange and pay for overland transport—restrictions that prevent choosing or negotiating with chassis providers may violate 46 U.S.C. 41102(c). The notice asks for information about chassis control, returns, reimbursements, and whether truckers can negotiate rates or free time.
Focus on Four Port Markets
The Commission is especially interested in whether truckers can choose chassis providers in four markets covered by a prior order: Los Angeles/Long Beach, Savannah, Memphis, and Chicago. The notice requests market-specific info such as chassis supply, percent of trucker-owned chassis, and whether single designated providers exist.
Prior Cease-and-Desist Precedent
The notice references a Feb. 13, 2024 Intermodal decision in which the Commission found that designating exclusive chassis providers violated 46 U.S.C. 41102(c) and ordered respondents to stop enforcing those rules at facilities in Chicago, Savannah, Memphis, and Los Angeles/Long Beach. The current inquiry examines whether carriers are complying with that order.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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