GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 19, 2026

Hague Rules

A shipment arrives damaged, and the first question in any claim is which liability regime applies.

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Last updated: 19 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Hague-Rules

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Logistics Concept

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Definition & Explanation

A shipment arrives damaged, and the first question in any claim is which liability regime applies. The Hague Rules, adopted in 1924 under the International Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules of Law relating to Bills of Lading, were the first binding international framework to codify ocean carriers' duties, defences, and liability caps. They require carriers to exercise due diligence in caring for cargo, but limit their exposure to a fixed amount per package or unit and permit enumerated defences, including errors in navigation and acts of God. While largely superseded by the Hague-Visby Rules of 1968 in most major trading nations, the original Hague Rules remain operative in a number of jurisdictions and continue to govern contracts concluded before later amendments took effect. Freight forwarders handling shipments to or from those jurisdictions must verify which regime applies before advising on cargo insurance cover.

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Hague Rules

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