Dispute Resolution Services

The FMC, through CADRS, provides ombuds and mediation services to assist parties in resolving international ocean cargo shipping or passenger vessel (cruise) disputes without resorting to litigation or administrative adjudication. These functions focus on addressing issues that members of the regulated industry and the shipping public may encounter at any stage of a commercial or customer dispute. In order to provide its ombuds and mediation services, CADRS needs certain identifying information about the involved parties, shipments, and nature of the dispute. In response to requests for assistance from the public, CADRS requests this information from parties seeking its assistance. The collection and use of this information on a cargo or cruise dispute is integral to CADRS staff's ability to efficiently review the matter and provide assistance.

The latest form for Dispute Resolution Services expires 2023-07-31 and can be found here.