What is the difference between a NVOCC and a freight forwarder?

© Valeriia Denysenko

For any confused shippers, Xeneta has an interesting blog on how to tell NVOCC and freight forwarders apart. While both are considered to be ’ocean transportation intermediaries’ (OTIs), there are some subtle differences. NVOCCs provide ocean transport as a carrier and traditionally don’t offer forwarding services. But as companies develop new strategies, the lines between the two have blurred and some offer both services. Who provides the best? Xeneta says the jury is out…