Common Carrier

What is a Common Carrier?

A common carrier is a company that offers service to the general public and accepts cargo subject to its available capacity.

Common carriers charge a specified rate and are responsible for any loss of goods during transport.

Common carriers differ from private carriers in that private carriers may refuse the right to sell their services at their own discretion and only transport their own goods. Common carriers are required to treat all customers equally.

What does a common carrier owe you?

A common carrier must serve any shipper who pays the published rate and tenders cargo it can legally carry. Liability rules depend on the mode of transport and the jurisdiction. They often cap what you can recover per package or per kilogram unless you declare a higher value or buy cargo insurance.

Airlines, ocean carriers, railroads, and many trucking companies operate as common carriers. Check the bill of lading or air waybill for liability terms before you ship high-value goods.

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