Common Carrier Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Common Carrier, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Common Carrier?

It is an individual or a company that transports people or goods on hire from one place to another for a specific amount of fees charged.Private carriers on the other hand transports goods or people for special purposes or on a one time basis only.

History and Meaning of Common Carrier

Common carrier is a term that dates back centuries, with roots in the English common law. It refers to an individual, business or organization that transports goods, people or messages for a fee, typically along a regular route or schedule. Common carriers are typically required by law to provide their services to anyone who requests them, provided they do not violate the law or company policy. They are also held to a high standard of care for the goods and people they transport, and can be held liable for damages or losses.

Examples of Common Carrier

  1. A commercial airline that carries passengers and cargo between cities.
  2. A trucking company that transports goods across the country.
  3. A postal service that delivers letters, packages and other mail to customers.
  4. A train company that operates a passenger and freight service between cities.
  5. A ride-sharing service that offers transportation services to riders.

Legal Terms Similar to Common Carrier

  1. Contract carrier: A carrier that transports goods or people under a specific contract with a individual or company.
  2. Private carrier: A carrier that transports goods or people for a specific individual or company.
  3. Public carrier: Another term for common carrier, which refers to a carrier that operates for the general public.