GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026

Transport law

Transport law is the body of law governing the commercial carriage of goods and passengers.

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Last updated: 22 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transportation_law

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Definition & Explanation

Transport law is the body of law governing the commercial carriage of goods and passengers. It divides into private law – covering contracts of carriage, liability regimes, and freight documents such as bills of lading – and public law, which addresses operating licences, vehicle roadworthiness, safety standards, and drivers' hours rules. Different international conventions apply depending on the mode of transport: the CMR for road freight, the Hague-Visby Rules for sea carriage, and the Montreal Convention for air cargo. Freight forwarders and carriers encounter these rules in concrete terms when handling liability claims, drafting transport contracts, or advising shippers on documentation requirements. Transport law is distinct from general commercial law, though the two frequently intersect in cross-border trade disputes.

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Transport law

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Related Terms

Transport declaration (Passar)

Digital Transport Slip (DTS)

European Conference of Ministers of Transport

Mode of transport

transport operation registration

Liability for dangerous goods transport

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