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Transportation Services Agreement Template for Carriers and Shippers

Transportation and Warehousing · NAICS 48-49 · Transportation Services Agreement

A Transportation Services Agreement is a vital contract that establishes the terms under which a carrier will transport goods for a shipper. In the fast-paced world of transportation and warehousing, having a clear, written agreement protects both parties by defining service expectations, rates, liability, and insurance requirements. This template is designed for trucking companies, freight brokers, and shippers across the US, covering common scenarios like FTL, LTL, and specialized freight. It helps you avoid disputes and ensures compliance with FMCSA regulations. Customize it to fit your specific operations and build a solid foundation for your business relationships.

When you need this document

When you are a carrier entering into a long-term arrangement with a shipper
When you are a shipper that regularly tenders freight to a specific carrier
When you need to formalize a spot agreement into an ongoing relationship
When you are a freight broker coordinating transportation between a shipper and a carrier
When you need to document special terms like refrigerated transport or hazmat

What the generated draft includes

Parties and effective date
Scope of services and service area
Rates, payment terms, and fuel surcharge provisions
Cargo liability and claim procedures
Insurance requirements and certificates
Compliance with FMCSA and other regulations
Term, termination, and renewal clauses
General provisions: governing law, force majeure, and dispute resolution

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a Transportation Services Agreement and a Bill of Lading?

A Transportation Services Agreement is a master contract that governs the ongoing relationship between a shipper and a carrier, setting terms like rates, liability, and insurance. A Bill of Lading is a document for each specific shipment, serving as a receipt and contract of carriage for that load. The agreement often incorporates the bill of lading by reference.

Do I need a Transportation Services Agreement if I only ship occasionally?

Even for occasional shipments, a written agreement can protect you by clearly stating liability limits, insurance requirements, and payment terms. If you use a broker, the broker may have its own agreement, but having a direct agreement with the carrier can provide additional clarity and protection.

Can I limit the carrier's liability for lost or damaged cargo?

Yes, under federal law (Carmack Amendment), carriers can limit their liability if the shipper is given the opportunity to declare a higher value and pays a higher rate. Your agreement should specify the cargo liability limit and the process for declaring excess value. This template includes a clause for that purpose.

Self-help document generator: you get a structured draft based on the facts you provide. It is not legal, tax, or financial advice; verify jurisdiction-specific rules before sending.