What Is Common Carrier?

3PL Glossary
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Common Carrier

Common Carrier Definition

A Common Carrier is a transportation service provider that offers its services to the general public under the authority of a regulatory body, accepting goods for transportation and charging a fee based on published rates.

Common Carrier Meaning

A Common Carrier is a business or individual that is in the business of transporting goods or passengers for compensation. These carriers must adhere to specific regulations, ensuring they provide services without discrimination. They are required to serve all customers under fair and reasonable terms.

A Common Carrier works by providing transportation services to anyone willing to pay the prescribed rate, with no special treatment for specific customers. By using common carriers, your business benefits from scalability, reduced capital investment, and access to a larger, more diverse delivery network. This allows for quicker deliveries, flexibility in transportation options, and cost savings on logistics operations.

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Buske Logistics is a Top 40 3PL with over 35 warehouses across North America, specializing in warehousing, transportation, and value-added services. We provide tailored logistics solutions serving major Fortune 500 companies.

Common carriers play a crucial role in logistics and supply chain management by providing reliable transportation services to businesses of all sizes. By utilizing a common carrier, businesses can ensure their goods are moved efficiently, reducing transportation costs and increasing operational flexibility.

For example, shipping companies like FedEx or UPS are common carriers that allow businesses to transport products reliably to a broad range of locations. They offer a cost-effective way to manage deliveries without the need for a private fleet, giving businesses access to a wide network of routes and infrastructure.

FAQs

What types of goods can a common carrier transport?
How do common carriers determine shipping rates?
Can I negotiate a shipping rate with a common carrier?