GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026
Carrier liability
Carrier liability is the legally defined obligation of a transport operator to compensate for loss of, damage to, or delay of goods in transit.
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Source: https://unece.org/transport/road-transport/cmr-convention
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Definition & Explanation
Carrier liability is the legally defined obligation of a transport operator to compensate for loss of, damage to, or delay of goods in transit. The applicable regime depends on the mode of transport: the CMR Convention governs international road freight, the CIM rules apply to rail, and the Montreal Convention covers air cargo. A defining feature across all these frameworks is a compensation cap, typically expressed per kilogram of gross weight, which limits the carrier's maximum financial exposure. Shippers can raise that ceiling by declaring a higher value against a surcharge; the caps may be set aside entirely where wilful misconduct or gross negligence is established. For freight forwarders and cargo underwriters, these limits are the starting point for any coverage assessment.
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