# Minimum Quantity Commitment Contracts in Shipping

*Last updated: 2026-06-26*

> A Minimum Quantity Commitment contract in shipping (MQC) is an arrangement under which a shipper guarantees to book a defined number of container slots or a specified cargo volume with a carrier over a fixed contract period.

A Minimum Quantity Commitment contract in shipping (MQC) is an arrangement under which a shipper guarantees to book a defined number of container slots or a specified cargo volume with a carrier over a fixed contract period. In exchange, the shipper secures preferential freight rates and assured space allocation – advantages that carry particular weight when market capacity is constrained. Should the committed volume fall short, a dead-freight clause typically requires the shipper to compensate the carrier for unused slots. From the carrier's perspective, MQC contracts underpin predictable vessel utilisation and reduce dependence on erratic spot-market demand. These agreements are most common in container liner trades and usually run for one year. They differ from US-regulated service contracts, which follow a distinct statutory framework under American maritime law.

**Source:** [https://www.supplychainquarterly.com/articles/what-are-minimum-quantity-commitment-contracts/](https://www.supplychainquarterly.com/articles/what-are-minimum-quantity-commitment-contracts/)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Minimum Quantity Commitment Contracts in Shipping |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 128 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-26 |
| Source | https://www.supplychainquarterly.com/articles/what-are-minimum-quantity-commitment-contracts/ |

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