$186m dispute: Why Samsung is suing CMA CGM over pandemic shipments
Samsung Electronics America seeks $186m from French carrier over alleged failures in store-door deliveries during.
French shipping giant CMA CGM has rejected allegations from Samsung Electronics America, which is seeking $186 million in damages over disputed charges during pandemic-era shipments. The carrier stated it fulfilled its contractual obligations and complied with regulations, despite Samsung’s claims of widespread violations.
The dispute centers on store-door cargo shipments handled by CMA CGM between 2020 and 2023. Samsung alleges the carrier repeatedly failed to complete inland transportation it was paid to perform, leaving the electronics company responsible for additional costs. The complaint includes over 121,000 individual charges, with Samsung demanding $148 million for unlawful demurrage, detention, and rail storage fees, plus $8.1 million spent on mitigation efforts and $30 million in prejudgment interest.
Samsung further accuses CMA CGM of terminating or diverting prepaid shipments after port discharge, converting them into container-yard moves and forcing the company to arrange the final leg of delivery. The electronics group also challenges the carrier’s cargo holds and handling of disputed fees.
Wan Hai Lines
In its first public response, CMA CGM acknowledged the complaint but declined further comment, citing ongoing legal proceedings. The case has advanced at the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), which designated an administrative law judge on September 1, 2026. CMA CGM has 25 days from that date to file a formal response. An initial decision is expected by September 1, 2027, with a final ruling due by March 15, 2028.
Settlements with other carriers: CMA CGM
The dispute is part of Samsung’s broader effort to recover costs from pandemic-era shipping disruptions. The company has already settled similar cases with two other carriers. On September 8, 2026, the FMC approved a confidential settlement with OOCL, dismissing Samsung’s $16.3 million claim over alleged failures in inland transportation and related fees. Earlier, on August 31, 2026, Samsung confirmed a settlement with Taiwanese carrier Wan Hai Lines, though terms remain undisclosed.
As the case unfolds, industry observers are closely monitoring its potential impact on shipping contracts. The outcome could influence how liability for delays and additional charges is allocated in future supply chain crises, particularly under store-door agreements where carriers assume responsibility for end-to-end delivery.
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