A common carrier is a transportation provider that offers freight or passenger services to the public for compensation under published or agreed service terms. In logistics, common carriers may include trucking companies, ocean carriers, railroads, airlines, parcel carriers, and other transport operators. They generally accept eligible shipments from multiple customers, subject to capacity, safety rules, tariffs, service areas, and cargo restrictions. Common carriers are different from private carriers, which transport goods for their own business rather than the public. They are also distinguished from contract carriers, which serve only specific customers under private agreements rather than at published tariff rates.
- Common carriers must serve all customers without discrimination
- Ocean common carriers file rates with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC)
- Subject to government regulation of rates and service practices
- Examples include major ocean shipping lines, airlines, and public trucking companies
Carrier liability for cargo damage is limited. Shippers with high-value cargo should obtain separate cargo insurance.
Learn more about Dedola’s global logistics services. Related terms: Contract of Carriage, Bill of Lading (BOL).
