CMA-NMSS National Maritime Safety Surch

The National Maritime Safety Surcharge (CMA-NMSS) is a fee levied primarily to cover the costs associated with adhering to specific maritime safety regulations that are mandated by certain countries. This surcharge is necessitated by the need to comply with national safety standards, which often include enhanced security measures, environmental protections, and other regulatory requirements designed to ensure safe and efficient maritime operations.

This fee is typically collected by shipping lines, such as CMA CGM, from the shippers or consignees who are utilizing their services. It is usually included as a part of the overall shipping charges and is paid by the party responsible for the freight costs as per the terms of the sales contract or incoterms in use.

The CMA-NMSS applies in scenarios where vessels are transporting goods to or from countries with stringent maritime safety regulations. The fee structure can vary depending on the specific requirements of the destination or departure country, as well as the nature of the cargo being transported. It is calculated based on the additional operational costs incurred by the shipping line to meet these national regulations.

Unlike other surcharges such as the Bunker Adjustment Factor (BAF) or Terminal Handling Charges (THC), the CMA-NMSS is specifically focused on compliance with safety-related regulations rather than fuel costs or port handling expenses. In practice, it is crucial for logistics professionals to be aware of the CMA-NMSS when planning shipments, especially to or from regions with known regulatory demands. Proper understanding and accounting for this surcharge can prevent unexpected costs and ensure seamless shipping operations.