GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 16, 2026
Carriage Contract
Unlike a sales contract, which governs the transfer of ownership, a carriage contract defines the legal relationship between carrier and shipper exclusively with respect to the transport operation.
Quick Answer
Last updated: Published:
Source: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/carriage-contract.asp
Category
Incoterms 2020 Simulator: Who bears costs & risk?
Reading time
1 min
Words
105
Mentioned in
–
Definition & Explanation
Unlike a sales contract, which governs the transfer of ownership, a carriage contract defines the legal relationship between carrier and shipper exclusively with respect to the transport operation. It sets out the cargo description, agreed route, freight charges, and the allocation of liability for loss, damage, or delay. Depending on the mode of transport, different international regimes apply: CMR for road haulage, the Hague-Visby Rules for sea freight, and separate frameworks for air and rail. The contract is typically evidenced by a booking confirmation, consignment note, or bill of lading. Carriers' standard trading conditions may further specify liability caps, claims deadlines, and grounds for exclusion.
Next steps
Matching tools and partners
Related Terms
You might also be interested in these terms
⚖️ ICC Incoterms 2020
Incoterms 2020 Simulator: Who bears costs & risk?
Analyze all 11 Incoterms 2020: cost matrix, risk timeline, insurance gap detector and customs responsibility – free, no login required.
Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox
Free · No password · Never a paywall. Weekly top news and facts from logistics.
Community Questions & Answers
Share your knowledge, ask follow-up questions, or add practical insights to this page. Every contribution is moderated before publication.
No community answers yet. Be the first.