Maritime Transportation
The Benesch Transportation & Logistics Group delivers comprehensive counsel across the maritime sector, representing carriers, NVOCCs, ocean freight forwarders, port and terminal operators, warehouse operators and shippers. We advise clients on establishing and operating OTI businesses, structuring commercial relationships, negotiating maritime transportation contracts and managing risk across global shipping networks.
Overview
Our team supports maritime and logistics companies throughout the lifecycle of their operations. This includes forming and maintaining NVOCC and OFF operations; developing maritime bills of lading and related contractual frameworks; and addressing cargo handling, warehousing and multimodal transport obligations. We also advise on acquisitions, divestitures and strategic business expansion involving maritime assets and service lines.
When disputes arise, we represent clients in cargo loss, damage and delay claims, insurance subrogation matters, and maritime accident litigation and arbitration. Our guidance is grounded in practical industry knowledge and tailored to support efficient, compliant and commercially sound operations across international shipping networks.
Related Industries
High performance in practice
Ranked Nationally by Chambers® 2025
in Transportation Law
Ranked Top-Tier Nationally by Best Lawyers® Best Law Firms 2026
in Transportation Law
Named Transportation Law Firm of the Year by Best Lawyers® Best Law Firms
in 2014, 2016, 2017, 2020, 2022, 2023, and 2025
Key Contacts

Marc S. Blubaugh
Co-Chair, Transportation & Logistics Practice Group; Vice Chair, Litigation Practice Group Columbus mblubaugh@beneschlaw.com
Richard A. Plewacki
Of Counsel Cleveland rplewacki@beneschlaw.com
Eric L. Zalud
Co-Chair, Transportation & Logistics Practice Group; Vice-Chair, Litigation Practice Group Cleveland ezalud@beneschlaw.comRelated News
Benesch Partner Jonathan Todd Quoted in Law360: What To Watch As East Coast Ports Strike Roils Supply Chain
Jonathan Todd, Vice Chair of Benesch’s Transportation & Logistics Practice Group, was quoted in a recent Law360 article discussing the …
InterConnect Newsletter – Winter 2017
Benesch named 2017 “Law Firm of the Year” in Transportation Law by U.S. News & World Report/Best Lawyers®
NAFTA Watch Newsletter Vol. 6 – The Trump Administration’s Objectives in Renegotiating NAFTA
This publication is our sixth installment in a series designed to provide our clients in the manufacturing, transportation and logistics, …