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Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Bond

An OTI Bond is required by the Federal Maritime Commission for businesses that arrange ocean shipping services or operate as carriers without owning vessels. The bond amount ranges from $50,000 to $150,000 depending on the type of business and whether it's U.S.-based. This bond ensures that these intermediaries have t…

Bond amount"Amount varies based on OTI type: Ocean Freight Forwarders ($50,000), U.S.-base…
State or jurisdictionVaries by requirement
ObligeeFederal Maritime Commission

Essential point: Pin down whether this is your bond, then start the application. Ava can confirm the right state and license type if you are not sure.

Amounts can vary

Selected requirement: "Amount varies based on OTI type: Ocean Freight Forwarders ($50,000), U.S.-base…. Other available requirements: "Amount varies based on OTI type: Ocean Freight Forwarders ($50,000), U.S.-based NVOCCs and licensed non-U.S.-based NVOCCs ($75,000), Unlicensed non-U.S. based registered NVOCCs ($150,000)". Exact options still depend on the obligee, state, and underwriting.

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Overview

What it is.

An OTI Bond is required by the Federal Maritime Commission for businesses that arrange ocean shipping services or operate as carriers without owning vessels. The bond amount ranges from $50,000 to $150,000 depending on the type of business and whether it's U.S.-based. This bond ensures that these intermediaries have t…

Who usually needs it

Ocean freight forwarders and non-vessel-operating common carriers (NVOCCs) who arrange shipping services for cargo transported by ocean vessels

Pricing & timing

What to expect.

Generic pricing

Customs bonds are required by U.S. Customs and Border Protection for importing goods. Typical Pricing:. • Single entry bonds: Typically a flat fee based on shipment value. • Continuous bonds: Commonly around 1–5% of the bond amount annually. • Bond amount: Usually 10% of duties, taxes, and fees paid in the prior year (minimum $50,000). Continuous bonds cover all imports for a 12-month period. Specialized customs application required with import/export details.

Your quote determines the actual premium.

Typical timeframe

Customs application — typically 1–3 business days

Timing can change when underwriting needs more information.
Application details

How it works.

  1. Start the application

    Confirm the bond and provide applicant and business details.

  2. Review the quote

    See the terms and premium before deciding to continue.

  3. Pay and sign

    Complete the required payment and signatures.

  4. Receive the bond

    Get the issued bond and filing or delivery instructions.

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Frequently asked

Common questions.

Who can issue my OTI bond?

The bond must be underwritten by a surety company acceptable to the U.S. Department of Treasury and listed on their Listing of Approved Sureties (Department Circular 570).

What is an Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI)?

An OTI is either an ocean freight forwarder who arranges shipping services for cargo, or a non-vessel-operating common carrier (NVOCC) who provides ocean transportation services without operating vessels.

How much does an OTI bond cost?

The bond amount varies by type: $50,000 for ocean freight forwarders, $75,000 for U.S.-based NVOCCs and licensed non-U.S.-based NVOCCs, and $150,000 for unlicensed non-U.S. based registered NVOCCs. The actual premium cost depends on the surety company and your financial profile.

What happens if my OTI bond is cancelled?

If your bond is cancelled, your license will be revoked 30 days after the Commission receives the cancellation notice. Your name will be removed from the active OTI list and you cannot perform OTI services in U.S. trades.

How long does it take for a bond cancellation to become effective?

Bond cancellations become effective 30 days after the Commission receives the notice of cancellation from either the surety or the OTI.

What is the Optional Rider for Additional NVOCC Financial Responsibility?

This is an optional $50,000 rider that NVOCCs can add to their bond to meet Chinese government financial responsibility requirements for operating in U.S.-China trade routes.

Can I use insurance instead of a surety bond?

While the FMC allows surety bonds, guaranties, or insurance as proof of financial responsibility, all proof submitted to date has been in the form of surety bonds.

Can multiple OTIs file one bond together?

Yes, a group of OTIs may file Form FMC-69, which is a group bond form. Members can be added and cancelled from the group bond by filing schedules.

Next step

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Ocean Transportation Intermediary (OTI) Bond | Platinum Bonds