Common Carrier

A common carrier is a transport company that provides shipping services to any business or individual willing to pay the published rates. Common carriers are legally obligated to accept freight from all shippers (within their equipment and route capabilities), provide reasonable care for the goods, and charge non-discriminatory rates. This distinguishes them from contract carriers, which serve specific clients under negotiated agreements.

Common carriers form the backbone of a country's freight transportation network. They provide accessible, standardised shipping options that small and medium businesses rely on. In Qatar, common carrier trucking services connect the ports and airports to businesses across the country, offering published rates per CBM or per pallet for standard delivery windows.

Common carriers bear a higher standard of liability than contract carriers. They are presumed responsible for loss or damage to goods unless they can prove it resulted from an act of God, an act of war, a fault of the shipper, or the inherent nature of the goods. This higher liability standard provides shippers with greater protection but is reflected in the rates charged.