Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC)
The status of a NVOCC is similar to a carrier except that it does not own and operate such vessels. The NVOCC acts as a middleman between shippers and carriers.
The NVOCC plays the role of a principal when dealing with shippers but act as a shipper when dealing with the carrier.
A NVOCC's functions include booking space with shipping companies, providing documentation services to shippers, coordinating with suppliers, shippers and the shipping lines to ensure smooth delivery of cargo to and from the port and arranging customs clearance of the cargo.
The services of a NVOCC is most desired when a shipper wish to ship only a small quantity of cargo which is insufficient for a full container load (FCL). The NVOCC will consolidate all such small quantities in a full container load for shipment.