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What is an NVOCC?

  • Jun 1
  • 2 min read

Definition

NVOCC (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier) is a company that provides ocean freight transportation services without owning or operating vessels.

An NVOCC purchases cargo space from ocean carriers and resells it to shippers, importers, exporters, and freight forwarders.

Role of an NVOCC

An NVOCC typically performs the following functions:

  • Purchases container space from ocean carriers

  • Arranges international ocean transportation

  • Consolidates shipments from multiple customers

  • Issues its own House Bill of Lading (HBL)

  • Provides freight rates and transportation solutions

Difference Between an NVOCC and a Freight Forwarder

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, they are not exactly the same.

NVOCC

  • Acts as a carrier to the shipper

  • Issues its own Bill of Lading

  • Takes contractual responsibility for ocean transportation

  • Buys and resells vessel space

Freight Forwarder

  • Acts as a logistics coordinator

  • Arranges transportation services

  • May handle ocean, air, rail, and trucking services

  • Usually does not act as the carrier

Benefits of Using an NVOCC

Using an NVOCC can provide several advantages:

  • Competitive freight rates

  • Flexible shipping options

  • Access to multiple ocean carriers

  • Shipment consolidation services

  • Simplified international logistics management

NVOCC in Logistics Procurement

In logistics procurement projects, NVOCCs often participate in freight bidding events and RFQs by submitting transportation proposals and freight rates.

Shippers can compare multiple NVOCCs based on pricing, service quality, transit times, and operational capabilities before selecting the most suitable logistics partner.

NVOCC and E-BID FREIGHT

E-BID FREIGHT enables NVOCCs to participate in transportation bidding projects, submit quotations, and compete for international logistics contracts.

This allows shippers to benchmark rates and identify the most competitive logistics providers through a transparent procurement process.

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