What is a Carrier?
A carrier is a company or individual that provides transportation services to move freight from one point to another. Carriers own or operate the vehicles, vessels, or aircraft used to transport goods.
Types of Carriers
- Motor carriers: Trucking companies (LTL and FTL)
- Rail carriers: Railroad companies
- Ocean carriers: Shipping lines operating vessels
- Air carriers: Airlines with cargo capacity
- Parcel carriers: Package delivery companies (UPS, FedEx)
Carrier Classifications
- Asset-based: Own trucks, terminals, and equipment
- Non-asset: Brokers or forwarders using other carriers
- Common carrier: Serves the general public
- Contract carrier: Serves specific customers under contract
- Private carrier: Company transporting its own goods
Carrier Selection Factors
- Service coverage and lanes
- Transit times and reliability
- Rates and pricing structure
- Equipment availability
- Claims history and insurance
- Technology capabilities (tracking, EDI)
- Safety record (CSA scores)