GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026
Force Majeure Event
A vessel stranded in port because a typhoon has shut down all traffic – that is a textbook force majeure event.
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Source: https://iccwbo.org/resources-for-business/guides/force-majeure/
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Logistics Concept
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Definition & Explanation
A vessel stranded in port because a typhoon has shut down all traffic – that is a textbook force majeure event. In transport and logistics law, the term refers to an unforeseeable, uncontrollable occurrence that makes contractual performance impossible or commercially impracticable: natural disasters, epidemics, armed conflict, strikes, and government action are the most common examples. The affected party is released from liability for damages and may postpone performance or terminate the contract, provided it gives prompt notice to the counterparty. The concept differs from a contractual force majeure clause: the legal doctrine is defined by applicable national law and case law, whereas a clause is negotiated by the parties and can be drafted more broadly or more narrowly.
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