Leading global port agency provider Inchape Shipping services is moving into the US freight forwarding sector after receiving its Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) license from the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC).
The FMC license means Inchcape can operate in the US as an NVOCC [non-vessel operating common carrier], allowing it to issue its own House Bills of Lading, consolidate shipments, and negotiate directly with ocean carriers to secure space and rates for shippers.
“Becoming an FMC-licensed NVOCC is a major milestone for Inchcape Shipping Services and for the customers we serve,” said Irem Gokmen, regional CEO Americas of Inchcape Shipping Services.
“This license reflects our commitment to operating at the highest standards of compliance, transparency, and service.
“With our NVOCC offering, we can give shippers more control, more flexibility, and more competitive options for moving cargo to and from the United States,” she added.
In the initial phase, Inchape will offer both full- and less-than-container load shipments to shippers as well as other forwarders.
Securing the OTI license, which is mandatory to issue Bills of Lading, involves a process that requires applicants to demonstrate financial responsibility, regulatory knowledge, and operational readiness.
“Our customers expect a partner they can rely on, especially when navigating the complexity of international ocean freight,” said Gerard Bradley, Director Americas Liner.
“Being FMC-licensed isn’t just a regulatory checkbox, it’s a signal of trust. We’re proud to bring that trust into a new chapter of service,” he added.
It is not the first time the firm has flirted with the freight forwarding sector. In 2018 it was acquired by the Dubai government which launched ISS Global Forwarding out of it.
However, its ownership was transferred once again when it was bought by UK private equity platform Epiris in 2022.
Inchape CEO at that time, Frank Olsen, said: “This investment by Epiris represents a rejuvenation of the company, enabling us to build on our solid business foundation, accelerate benefit realisation and unlock significant upside potential.
“Inchcape can now move forward with deployment of capital to realise its strategic goal to become an aggregated platform in the maritime services industry and thereby accelerate realisation of benefits for our customers,” he added.