Search Results for keywords:"shipping"

The United States Postal Service has announced its intention to file a request with the Postal Regulatory Commission to add a new domestic shipping services contract. This contract will be listed under the Negotiated Service Agreements in the Competitive Products List of the Mail Classification Schedule. The specific agreement involves a contract for Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage. Interested parties can find additional documents on the Postal Regulatory Commission's website under the docket numbers provided.

The Federal Maritime Commission has started an investigation into reports that Spain is making it difficult for certain U.S. vessels to access its ports, particularly affecting those involved in the U.S. Maritime Security Program. This program supports ships that can be used by the U.S. Department of Defense in emergencies. The Commission is seeking comments and information from interested parties, including the Spanish government and affected shipping companies, to understand the situation better and determine if it harms U.S. foreign trade. The investigation aims to ensure fair and efficient trade conditions for U.S. shipping interests.

The Department of State will hold a public meeting on March 27, 2025, at 10 a.m. ET to prepare for the upcoming International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 83) session. The meeting will occur both in person at the Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, DC, and virtually via Microsoft Teams. Participants can discuss agenda items like air pollution prevention, energy efficiency of ships, and marine plastic litter reduction. Interested individuals should RSVP by March 21, 2025, to ensure a spot and receive teleconference details.

The Postal Service has issued a final rule to modify the way bundles of flat mail items, like brochures or magazines, should be secured, as noted in the updated Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM®). Starting July 1, 2025, mailers can avoid bundling small batches of up to 500 flat items, while larger bundles must be secured with multiple bands or shrink-wrap to prevent damage in transit. Exceptions are made for First-Class Mail flats, which can still use rubber bands or string, and special provisions apply to newspapers. This change aims to reduce damage and handling costs associated with broken bundles.

The Federal Maritime Commission has announced the filing of an agreement called the CMA CGM/COSCO Jamaica—Puerto Rico Space Charter Agreement. This agreement allows CMA CGM to let COSCO use space on some of CMA CGM's vessels traveling from Jamaica to Puerto Rico. The public can submit comments on this agreement within 12 days of the notice's publication in the Federal Register. More details and a copy of the agreement are available on the Commission's website.