(a) Scope. The regulations of this part govern the publication of tariffs in automated systems by common carriers and conferences in the waterborne foreign commerce of the United States. They cover the transportation of property by such carriers, including through transportation with inland carriers. They implement the tariff publication requirements of 46 U.S.C. 40501-40503.

(b) Purpose. The requirements of this part are intended to permit:

(1) Shippers and other members of the public to obtain reliable and useful information concerning the rates and charges that will be assessed by common carriers and conferences for their transportation services;

(2) Carriers and conferences to meet their publication requirements pursuant to 46 U.S.C. 40501-40503;

(3) The Commission to ensure that carrier tariff publications are accurate and accessible and to protect the public from violations by carriers of 46 U.S.C. 41101-41106; and

(4) The Commission to review and monitor the activities of controlled carriers pursuant to 46 U.S.C. 40701-40706.