Feeder Service

Cargo to/from regional ports are transferred to/from a central hub port for a long–haul ocean voyage.

Feeder Vessel

A short–sea vessel which transfers cargo between a central “hub” port and smaller “spoke” ports.

FEU

Abbreviation for “Forty–Foot Equivalent Units.” Refers to container size standard of 40 feet. Two 20–foot containers or TEU’s equal one FEU.

Fifth Wheel

The semi–circular steel coupling device mounted on a tractor which engages and locks with a chassis semi–trailer.

FIO

See Free In and Out.

Firkin

A capacity measurement equal to one–fourth of a barrel.

Fixed Costs

Costs that do not vary with the level of activity. Some fixed costs continue even if no cargo is carried. Terminal leases, rent and property taxes are fixed costs.

Flat Car

A rail car without a roof and walls.

Flat Rack/Flat Bed Container

A container with no sides and frame members at the front and rear. Container can be loaded from the sides and top.

FMC (F.M.C.)

Federal Maritime Commission. The U.S. Governmental regulatory body responsible for administering maritime affairs including the tariff system, freight forwarder licensing, enforcing the conditions of the Shipping Act and approving conference or other carrier…