public carrier

A common carrier is a business or agency that is available to the public for the transportation of people, goods, or messages. In law, common carriers are distinguished from private carriers, who may carry goods for specific individuals or incidentally to their main business. Common carriers are generally subject to strict economic regulation, meaning they cannot charge unreasonably high rates or engage in unjust discrimination. They must also serve anyone who makes a lawful request for their services. This contrasts with contract carriers, who can select their customers and set their own rates. The concept of a "public carrier" in civil-law systems is functionally similar to a common carrier, also being subject to regulation and obligated to serve the public.123