$186m Claim: Samsung Takes CMA CGM to US Maritime Regulator
Samsung Electronics America files complaint with FMC alleging over 121,000 unlawful charges for delayed container.
Samsung Electronics America has taken legal action against CMA CGM, filing a complaint with the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) to recover $186 million for alleged violations of the U.S. Shipping Act. The dispute focuses on delays and additional charges linked to “store door” shipments, where CMA CGM was responsible for transporting containers from U.S. ports to Samsung’s inland warehouses.
The conflict began in January 2020, when CMA CGM started handling these shipments under agreements that required the carrier to manage both ocean and inland transportation. Samsung claims that from mid-2020 onward, CMA CGM frequently failed to move containers on schedule, citing port congestion, chassis shortages, and a lack of truck drivers as reasons for the delays. However, Samsung argues that these issues do not excuse CMA CGM from its contractual obligations.
Financial and Operational Impact: CMA CGM
The delays led to over 121,000 charges, including more than 26,000 demurrage fees and 94,000 detention-related costs. Samsung’s claim breaks down into three main categories: $148 million for unlawful or excessive charges, $8.1 million for additional expenses incurred due to the disruptions, and $30 million in prejudgment interest. The company also reserves the right to seek further compensation for lost revenue, legal fees, and other costs, which could increase the total claim.
Beyond the financial demands, Samsung alleges that CMA CGM used pressure tactics to enforce payment of disputed bills. The carrier is accused of placing “finance holds” on shipments unrelated to the disputed charges and suspending accounts to block the release of containers. In some cases, CMA CGM reportedly changed store-door shipments to merchant haulage or container-yard movements without Samsung’s consent, forcing the company to arrange its own inland transportation.
Next Steps in the Dispute
Samsung has asked the FMC to order CMA CGM to pay reparations and halt the practices it considers unlawful. The company also seeks broader relief, including compensation for operational disruptions. Samsung stated that it attempted to resolve the matter through negotiations, sending a formal demand in July 2024 and holding in-person meetings in 2025 and 2026, but these efforts failed to produce a settlement.
CMA CGM, the world’s third-largest container shipping line, has not yet publicly responded to the complaint. The FMC, which oversees U.S. maritime trade regulations, will now review the case and determine whether penalties or reparations are warranted.
Sign up free to ask CAMAL AI for a summary, the key points or anything else about this story.
Related stories
CAMAL AI
Financial Ports Newsletter
The maritime economy, every morning
Ports, shipping and freight markets in one short email. Free.
