The new changes in the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) can significantly impact the process of claims related to transportation costs. According to these changes, there is no three-year time limit for complaints regarding costs incurred after June 16, 2022. This amendment allows companies to address their complaints and take action in cases that may have previously been lost due to time limitations.
Increase in Claims Post-Pandemic
Transportation cost complaints have significantly increased, especially in the post-pandemic period. Companies have been seeking compensation for losses they consider to be due to unfair detention practices and additional charges. According to informed sources in this area, many complaints have been filed between 2021 and 2023, and with the new changes, companies gain a fresh opportunity to file their claims.
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Impact on Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises
These changes not only benefit large companies but also provide significant advantages for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Given that the cost of filing a complaint may have previously exceeded the amount of compensation, these amendments allow them to question unfair charges without worrying about time limitations. Additionally, the U.S. Maritime Commission has not restricted the avenues through which complaints can be filed, allowing for complaints to be submitted through small and formal processes.
In light of these conditions, companies should carefully review their assessments regarding detention and additional charges (D&D) and ensure they maintain complete records of invoices and bills of lading to support potential claims. In the past, many companies refrained from filing complaints due to high litigation costs, but these changes give them hope that they can achieve justice.
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