Glossary
Common Carrier
Tags: Glossary
A common carrier is a company that offers service to the general public.
Ready to Get Started?
Flexport makes shipping your cargo transparent, reliable, and affordable
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.
Learn More
Related Help Articles
What Is the Purpose of a Bill of Lading?
Related Glossary Terms
More From Flexport
Sign Up for Freight Market Updates
Get weekly insights into all things freight, delivered right to your inbox.
I agree to the storing and processing of my personal data by Flexport as described in the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.