🔍 Key Concepts

• Role and purpose of the National Cargo Bureau (NCB) in U.S. shipping • Who requests NCB inspections and certificates for cargo loading and stowage • Difference between a group that represents one party’s interests vs an independent inspection/approval organization

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: Is NCB mainly protecting the interests of the cargo owner, the port/agent, the vessel operator, or the safety of the ship and compliance with regulations? • Think about who would typically call NCB to survey and certify cargo loading on a U.S.-flag vessel or foreign vessel loading in the U.S. • Consider whether NCB is a commercial representative (like a broker or agent) or a neutral technical body working under Coast Guard authorization.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify whether NCB is described as a non‑profit, impartial organization rather than part of a commercial party • Check if exam prep materials say NCB "represents" a specific party in the shipping transaction, or if it works for overall safety and compliance • Be sure you are not confusing NCB with a classification society or a private cargo surveyor hired directly by one party.