The Federal Maritime Commission announced Aug. 23 that it has
revoked the ocean transportation intermediary license of Los Angeles-based Transporte
Medrano Inc., which does business as Medrano Express.
The revocation means Medrano Express is no longer authorized
to provide ocean transportation services in the United States, and the FMC has
stated that consumers and businesses should no longer tender cargo to Medrano
Express or its agents for the international shipment of goods.
The Commission’s revocation action came after it began
receiving complaints that consumers have been unable to reach Medrano Express
or locate their goods. In addition to Los Angeles, Medrano has offices in other
major cities across the US, including Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, Miami and
Minneapolis.
Anyone using Medrano Express to arrange for international
shipment of their cargo who is currently experiencing problems with a shipment,
is being encouraged by Maritime Commission to take certain steps.
First, if cargo has not been delivered or recovered, you may
place a claim for compensation via mail with surety company Roanoke Trade
Services, Inc./For American Alternative Insurance Corporation Attention: Steve
Knutson 1475 E. Woodfield Road, Suite 500 Schaumburg, IL 60173 USA.
The claim should include a copy of the invoice received from
Medrano Express or its agent, plus the dollar amount paid to Medrano Express
for shipment of goods, and the estimated value of the goods shipped. Also, bond
coverage number 571646 should be referenced in the claim, and claims should be
sent by certified mail, with a return receipt requested.
The FMC also says that claimants should contact the Maritime
Commission’s Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services, which
is working to help consumers locate their cargo and assist with the release
and/or delivery of cargo, when possible.
Written requests for assistance should include a copy of the
invoice received from Medrano Express and your contact information. The information
can be emailed or faxed to complaints@fmc.gov or (202) 275-0059.
