Atlas Line – Code of Ethics & Compliance (Members-only)
This Code of Ethics & Compliance (the “Code”) applies to all Atlas Line agents and forms an integral part of the Atlas Line Agency Agreement by incorporation by reference. Compliance with this Code is mandatory for all agents, their employees and subcontractors.
1. Ethical Conduct & Professional Standards
Agents shall act honestly, diligently and in good faith in all dealings related to Atlas Line shipments. Agents shall safeguard the reputation, commercial interests and goodwill of Atlas Line at all times and shall refrain from any conduct that may cause reputational, legal or financial harm.
2. Authority & Use of Atlas Line Bills of Lading
Agents are authorized to sign Atlas Line Bills of Lading solely within the scope of authority granted under the Agency Agreement and in accordance with Atlas Line instructions. Under no circumstances may Atlas Line Bills of Lading, branding, trade names or logos be used without proper authorization.
3. Operational Duties & Documentation
Agents shall fulfil all agency duties related to shipments, including but not limited to the preparation and handling of shipping documents, coordination of transport, cargo delivery and freight collection where applicable. All documentation must be accurate, complete and timely.
4. Insurance & Reporting Obligations
Agents shall ensure that all shipments for which Atlas Line Bills of Lading are issued are properly reported through the designated Atlas Line systems. Agents shall comply with all insurance reporting requirements and acknowledge that failure to do so may result in loss of coverage, for which the Agent remains fully liable.
5. Compliance with International Regulations
Agents must comply with all applicable international, regional and local regulations, including but not limited to SOLAS container weight verification, Advanced Manifest Filing requirements (AMS, ACI and equivalents), FMC regulations for US-related shipments and any other mandatory transport or customs legislation.
6. Claims, Disputes & Notifications
Agents shall immediately notify Atlas Line of any claim, dispute, legal proceeding or irregularity related to Atlas Line shipments or Bills of Lading. Agents must cooperate fully in claim handling and notify all relevant carriers or parties within the required time limits.
7. Staff Authorization
Only staff members duly authorized by the Agent and accepted by Atlas Line may sign Atlas Line Bills of Lading. Agents must maintain an up-to-date list of authorized signatories and notify Atlas Line promptly of any changes.
8. Subcontractors & Liability
Agents remain fully liable for the acts and omissions of subcontractors appointed by them. Agents shall ensure that subcontractors comply with all applicable Atlas Line rules, regulations and legal requirements.
9. Confidentiality & Data Accuracy
All Atlas Line information, procedures, systems access, tariffs and documentation are strictly confidential. Agents are responsible for the accuracy of all data submitted and shall ensure that no confidential information is disclosed to unauthorized parties.
10. Breach & Sanctions
Any breach of this Code may result in immediate suspension or termination of the Agency Agreement, withdrawal of authority to sign Bills of Lading and any other measures deemed necessary by Atlas Line.