Shipper And Carrier Contract Template for the United States

A Shipper and Carrier Contract is a comprehensive legal agreement that governs the transportation of goods between a shipper and a transportation provider. This contract establishes the terms, conditions, and responsibilities for moving cargo, whether across state lines or within a single state. You need this document to protect your interests, ensure regulatory compliance, and create clear expectations for shipping services in the United States.

When do you need this document?

You need a Shipper and Carrier Contract when establishing ongoing relationships with trucking companies, freight carriers, or logistics providers. This includes situations where you regularly ship products to customers, need to transport raw materials to manufacturing facilities, or require specialized transportation services like refrigerated cargo or hazardous materials. The contract becomes essential when moving beyond one-time shipping arrangements to establish recurring transportation partnerships. You also need this agreement when your business requires specific delivery schedules, custom handling procedures, or when shipping high-value goods that require additional insurance coverage.

Key legal considerations

Several critical legal elements must be addressed in your contract to ensure proper protection and compliance. Liability limitations are paramount, as the Carmack Amendment provides specific frameworks for carrier responsibility and damage claims. Your contract must clearly define the carrier's liability for lost, damaged, or delayed shipments, including any limitations and exceptions. Insurance requirements need detailed specification, covering both the carrier's mandatory coverage and any additional cargo insurance needed for your specific goods. Payment terms should establish clear invoicing procedures, payment schedules, and remedies for non-payment. Force majeure clauses protect both parties from uncontrollable events that might disrupt transportation services. Additionally, your contract should address dispute resolution mechanisms, including arbitration clauses and jurisdiction selection for potential legal proceedings.

Legal requirements in United States

United States law imposes specific requirements that your Shipper and Carrier Contract must address for legal validity and regulatory compliance. The Interstate Commerce Act and Carmack Amendment govern liability standards and claims procedures for interstate shipments, requiring carriers to provide reasonable dispatch and delivery while limiting their liability under certain circumstances. FMCSA regulations mandate that carriers maintain specific insurance minimums, hold valid operating authorities, and comply with safety standards including Hours of Service rules and Electronic Logging Device requirements. Your contract must ensure the carrier possesses proper DOT registration numbers, maintains current insurance certificates, and complies with all applicable safety regulations. Environmental compliance requirements under EPA standards may apply depending on your cargo type. The contract should also address state-specific requirements that may apply to intrastate movements, including additional licensing, insurance, or operational requirements that vary by jurisdiction.