Florida-Based Carrier Sues Freight Forwarder Over $60,000 in Unpaid Ocean Shipping Charges
King Ocean Services, Ltd., a vessel operating common carrier (VOCC) based in Florida, has filed a breach of maritime contract lawsuit in the Southern District of Florida against Global Freight Systems, Inc. The lawsuit, filed under Case No. 1:25-cv-22389, seeks to recover $60,155.04 in unpaid ocean freight charges incurred between October 2024 and March 2025, along with attorneys’ fees and other costs under the terms of a series of shipping contracts.
King Ocean Claims Global Freight Failed to Pay for Shipping Services from Port Everglades to Latin America
According to the complaint, King Ocean provided ocean transportation services at the request of Global Freight, shipping goods from Port Everglades, Florida, to international ports in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean Basin. King Ocean asserts that Global Freight acted as the “Shipper” on each bill of lading during the relevant period, and that the services were provided in full, with goods delivered to the named consignees.
Despite repeated demands for payment, Global Freight has allegedly failed to remit any of the invoiced amounts for services rendered. The carrier claims that all the charges are detailed in the account statement attached to the lawsuit, which includes shipments governed by bills of lading issued by King Ocean. One such document—Bill of Lading PEVMOI25392—is specifically referenced in the filing.
Terms and Conditions of Bills of Lading Support Carrier’s Right to Recover Legal Fees and Shipping Debts
King Ocean’s bills of lading contain standard maritime Terms and Conditions, which define the term “Merchant” broadly to include shippers, consignees, and other parties entitled to the goods. Global Freight, as the identified shipper, is bound by these terms. Under Paragraph 15 of the Terms and Conditions, the “Merchant” is held jointly and severally liable for all freight charges, demurrage, and attorneys’ fees incurred by the carrier in collecting amounts due.
The lawsuit alleges that Global Freight committed a material breach by refusing to pay the freight charges, in violation of Paragraph 15. King Ocean now seeks not only the outstanding $60,155.04 but also recovery of attorneys’ fees, interest, and related legal costs.
Contact a Miami Freight and Maritime Contract Lawyer Today for Breach of Shipping Agreement Disputes
When freight forwarders or logistics companies fail to pay ocean carriers for transport services, legal action may be necessary to enforce maritime contracts. Whether you are a VOCC, NVOCC, or cargo consignee, you have rights under maritime law to recover shipping costs and pursue breach of contract claims. Contact us today to speak with an experienced maritime lawyer who can help protect your business interests.