GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026
Minimum Quantity Commitment Contracts in Shipping
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.
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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.
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