common carrier

law

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Last updated

June 24, 2026

Quick Summary

In law, a common carrier is a business that offers transportation services to the general public for hire. This distinguishes them from private carriers, who transport their own goods, and contract carriers, who transport goods for specific clients rather than the public at large.12

Common carriers are subject to strict regulations. They cannot charge unfairly high rates or engage in unjust discrimination. They must serve anyone who requests their services, provided the request is lawful. Furthermore, common carriers are held liable for any loss or damage to goods during transit, unless specific exceptions apply, such as acts of God or the fault of the shipper. This strict liability is a key legal characteristic differentiating them from other types of carriers.13

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carriage of goods
Common-law common carrier
In English and American law, common carriers are distinguished from other carriers. A common carrier is one who holds himself out as being ready to carry goods for the public at large for hire or reward. In England carriers of goods by land…
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In English and American law, common carriers are distinguished from other carriers. A common carrier is one who holds himself out as being ready to carry goods for the public at large for hire or reward. In England carriers of goods by land…
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marketing
Transportation firms
A common carrier provides services to any and all companies between predetermined points on a scheduled basis. The U.S. Postal Service is a common carrier, as are FedEx and the Amtrak railway system.
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A common carrier provides services to any and all companies between predetermined points on a scheduled basis. The U.S. Postal Service is a common carrier, as are FedEx and the Amtrak railway system.
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