Shipping Lawyer Port and Terminal Law

Question 1

What U.S. federal agency oversees the security of U.S. ports and maritime facilities?

Accepted Answer

U.S. Coast Guard

Answer

Federal Maritime Commission

Answer

Transportation Security Administration

Answer

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Question 2

What is a 'port tariff' and what legal obligation does it create for vessels?

Accepted Answer

A published schedule of port charges and conditions that legally binds vessels calling at that port

Answer

An environmental fee charged at port

Answer

A customs duty schedule for cargo

Answer

A pilotage fee schedule set by the Coast Guard

Question 3

What is compulsory pilotage and under what legal framework is it enforced in U.S. ports?

Accepted Answer

A legally mandated requirement for foreign-flagged vessels to take on a licensed harbor pilot, governed by state law

Answer

A requirement for all vessels to install electronic navigation systems

Answer

A federal licensing requirement for all vessel masters

Answer

A Coast Guard inspection requirement before port entry

Question 4

What is the 'Marine Terminal Operator Schedule' (MTOS) and who files it?

Accepted Answer

A tariff-like document filed with the FMC by marine terminal operators setting rates and rules for terminal services

Answer

A vessel arrival schedule published by ports

Answer

An environmental compliance plan for terminals

Answer

A labor scheduling document for longshoremen

Question 5

What is 'wharfage' as a port charge?

Accepted Answer

A fee assessed on cargo for the use of a wharf or dock facility during loading or discharge

Answer

A charge for harbor pilotage services

Answer

A vessel berthing fee

Answer

An anchorage charge for vessels waiting offshore

Question 6

Under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA), who is covered?

Accepted Answer

Maritime workers, other than seamen, injured on or near navigable waters in the course of maritime employment

Answer

Seamen employed on vessels in navigation

Answer

All port employees regardless of work location

Answer

Only longshoremen employed directly by vessel owners