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Truck Transportation Services Agreement Template

Truck Transportation · NAICS 484 · Transportation Services Agreement

A Truck Transportation Services Agreement is a vital contract between a shipper (or broker) and a motor carrier that outlines the terms for hauling freight. In the trucking industry, clear agreements prevent disputes over rates, liability, and delivery schedules. This template is tailored to the unique needs of truck transportation, covering FMCSA compliance, equipment types, and cargo liability. It helps you establish a professional relationship, set clear expectations, and protect your business. Whether you are a carrier or a shipper, having a solid agreement in place is essential for smooth operations and legal protection.

When you need this document

When a shipper regularly uses a specific carrier for full truckload or LTL shipments.
When a carrier wants to formalize terms with a new customer to ensure payment and liability clarity.
When entering into a dedicated contract carriage arrangement for a specific lane or period.
When a broker needs a sub-contract with an owner-operator or fleet.
When transporting specialized freight such as refrigerated goods or hazardous materials that require additional terms.

What the generated draft includes

Parties and effective date, including MC/DOT numbers.
Scope of services with equipment and service type.
Compensation, fuel surcharge, and payment terms.
Insurance and cargo liability provisions.
Compliance with FMCSA and other regulations.
Term, termination, and indemnification clauses.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a transportation services agreement and a bill of lading?

A transportation services agreement is a long-term contract that sets the terms for multiple shipments, while a bill of lading is a document for each specific shipment. The agreement governs the relationship, and the bill of lading serves as a receipt and contract for each load.

Do I need to include insurance requirements in the agreement?

Yes, it is crucial to specify the types and limits of insurance the carrier must maintain. This protects the shipper in case of accidents or cargo damage. Typical requirements include $1 million auto liability and $100,000 cargo liability.

Can I use this template for a one-time shipment?

This template is designed for ongoing relationships. For a single shipment, a bill of lading may be sufficient. However, if you want to set additional terms, you can adapt this agreement for a single load by specifying the term as 'one-time' and referencing the bill of lading.

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.