Are the limitations to carrier liability uniformly established in all agreements?

The fact that carrier liability limitations vary among carriers is rooted in the nature of transportation agreements and the different business practices and standards adopted by various carriers. Each carrier often sets its own terms and conditions based on its operational model, risk management policies, and service offerings. This means that the liability limits established in contracts can differ significantly from one carrier to another, as they may take into account factors such as the mode of transport (air, ocean, ground), type of cargo, and specific logistical considerations.

While some regulations may provide a framework for certain types of shipments, the key aspect is that the specific liability terms must be outlined in the carrier's agreements, leading to variations. This flexibility allows carriers to tailor their policies to better fit their business strategies, competitive positioning, and customer needs. Additionally, the presence of international treaties, like the Hague-Visby Rules or the Montreal Convention for air cargo, provides some standardization in certain contexts, but does not eliminate the differences that can exist among individual carriers' terms and conditions.

Understanding these nuances is crucial for exporters when selecting carriers and negotiating contracts, as recognizing the diverse liability limitations impacts risk management and insurance needs during the transportation of goods.