The Agency must make a determination within 120 days after receiving a complaint. When a complaint is dealt with entirely in writing, however, it will generally require less time.

The number of participants at particular proceedings will also be a factor affecting its length. A case relating to an ancillary charge that attracts the attention of many segments of the shipper community, may involve several parties and intervenors. The Agency may determine that additional time is required to deal with all relevant evidence and submissions and may request that the parties consent to an extension of the 120 day timeframe.