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46 U.S.C. 40702: Rate standardsText contains those laws in effect through Public Law 119-120 (October 7, 2026).
From Title 46-SHIPPINGCHAPTER 407-CONTROLLED CARRIERS

§40702. Rate standards

(a)  Definition.⁠—In this section, the term “constructive costs” means the costs of another carrier, other than a controlled carrier, operating similar vessels and equipment in the same or a similar trade.

(b)  Standards.⁠—In determining whether a rate, charge, classification, rule, or regulation of a controlled carrier is just and reasonable, the Federal Maritime Commission⁠—

(1)  shall take into account whether the rate or charge that has been published or assessed, or that would result from the pertinent classification, rule, or regulation, is below a level that is fully compensatory to the controlled carrier based on the carrier’s actual costs or constructive costs; and

(2)  may take into account other appropriate factors, including whether the rate, charge, classification, rule, or regulation is⁠—

(A)  the same as, or similar to, those published or assessed by other carriers in the same trade;

(B)  required to ensure movement of particular cargo in the same trade; or

(C)  required to maintain acceptable continuity, level, or quality of common carrier service to or from affected ports.

( Pub. L. 109–304, § 7 , Oct. 6, 2006 , 120 Stat. 1536 .)

Historical and Revision Notes

Revised

Section

Source (U.S. Code)

Source (Statutes at Large)

40702

46 App.:1708(b).

Pub. L. 98–237, § 9(b), Mar. 20, 1984, 98 Stat. 76; Pub. L. 105–258, title I, § 108(5)–(7), Oct. 14, 1998, 112 Stat. 1908.