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The American Fisheries Act of 1998 (AFA) is a law that places restrictions on the types of entities allowed to hold mortgages on (or share ownership of) vessels with a registered length of 100 feet or more. Specifically, to operate...
The Maritime Administration’s Launch Barge Program is designed to ensure that the largest of petroleum production platforms can be installed in a safe and timely manner.
The Launch Barge Program has three parts:
We encourage the use of U.S.-flag coastwise qualified...The Jones Act requires that vessels operating in coastwise commerce be built in the U.S...
The purpose of this...
Welcome to the U.S. Flag Services section of the Office of Cargo and Commercial Sealift.
We have provided several areas of information for your use. You’ll find a listing of U.S. Flag Carriers which will include contact information and website links. If you want to see an alphabetical...
Owners/operators of a U.S.-flag vessel(s) participating in the Cargo Preference program are required to submit annual vessel operating and capital cost information per 46 CFR 382.2. Submit operating cost information in the format stipulated in 46 CFR 232.1, on Schedule 310 of Form MA- 172....
The Maritime Administration re-established the Shipper Recognition Program in May 2003. The purpose of the awards program is to recognize quality companies that have supported the U.S. merchant marine by transporting a significant share of their international cargo on U.S.-flag vessels. The...
This page provides more details about many Cargo Preference laws and regulations. It is not exhaustive and does not necessarily cover all scenarios and situations. For additional information, contact the Office of Cargo and Commercial Sealift.
Military Cargo Civilian Agencies Cargo (...Per the Military Cargo Preference Act of 1904, items procured for, intended for use by, or owned by military departments or defense agencies must move exclusively (100 percent) on U.S.-flag vessels, unless the rates are excessive or otherwise unreasonable for...