Public Carrier

Definition

A public carrier, also known as a common carrier, is an entity that offers transportation services to the general public under the authority of a regulatory body. These services can include the movement of goods (freight) or passengers for a fee. Public carriers operate under strict regulations and are required to provide their services without discrimination, adhering to established rates and schedules.

Examples

Freight Shipping Companies: Companies like FedEx and UPS that transport parcels and freight across regions and countries.
Public Transportation Systems: Municipal bus lines, metro systems, and other public transit services that transport passengers within cities.
Passenger Airlines: Airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, and Southwest that offer scheduled flights to the general public.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the difference between a public carrier and a private carrier?

A1: A public carrier offers transportation services to the public under established regulations, while a private carrier provides services for its own needs or under specific contracts, and is not available to the public at large.

Q2: Are public carriers liable for losses of goods during transit?

A2: Yes, public carriers are generally liable for loss or damage to goods during transit, except in cases where the loss is due to uncontrollable factors like natural disasters.

Q3: What regulations do public carriers need to follow?

A3: Public carriers must follow regulations set by entities such as the Department of Transportation and adhere to safety, operational, and service standards.

Q4: Can a public carrier refuse service to a customer?

A4: Generally, no. Public carriers must provide services without discrimination but can refuse service if the goods are prohibited or dangerous, or if safety regulations are not met by the customer.

Q5: Do public carriers set their own prices?

A5: Prices are often regulated and must be consistent with guidelines set by regulatory authorities, though carriers can propose rates that need approvals.

Common Carrier: A synonym for a public carrier, emphasizing the non-discriminatory service provision to the general public.
Private Carrier: An entity that transports goods or passengers typically under private contractual arrangements.
Freight Forwarder: A business that organizes shipments for individuals or corporations to get goods from the manufacturer to a market, customer, or final point of distribution.
Bill of Lading: A legal document between a shipper and carrier detailing the type, quantity, and destination of goods being carried.

Online References

Suggested Books for Further Studies

Principles of Transportation by Kenneth Rodrgue, Dick James, and Lisa O’Connell.
Freight Transport and Logistics by Maarten Pieters.
Transportation Law, Principles, and Policies by Bernard Schwartz.

Fundamentals of Public Carrier: Transportation Basics Quiz

### Which entity offers transportation services to the general public under regulatory authority? - [x] Public Carrier - [ ] Private Carrier - [ ] Freight Forwarder - [ ] Logistics Coordinator > **Explanation:** Public carriers, also known as common carriers, provide transportation services to the general public under regulatory oversight, adhering to established rates and schedules. ### Can a public carrier refuse service to a customer? - [ ] No, they must service all requests - [x] Yes, under specific circumstances like safety concerns - [ ] Only if the service is against their company policies - [ ] No, regardless of any conditions > **Explanation:** Public carriers generally cannot refuse service arbitrarily but can refuse under specific conditions like safety concerns or prohibited goods. ### Who sets the prices for public carrier services? - [x] Regulated by authorities but carriers can propose - [ ] Solely by the carrier - [ ] By a third-party logistics company - [ ] Based on customer demand > **Explanation:** Prices for public carrier services are regulated by authorities, although carriers can propose rates which must receive approval. ### What document details the type, quantity, and destination of goods carried by a public carrier? - [ ] Freight Invoice - [ ] Transportation Receipt - [x] Bill of Lading - [ ] Shipping Manifest > **Explanation:** A Bill of Lading is the legal document a carrier uses detailing the type, quantity, and destination of the goods. ### Which transportation service is typically not considered a public carrier? - [ ] Municipal Bus System - [ ] Passenger Airlines - [x] Corporate Carpool Services - [ ] Freight Shipping Companies > **Explanation:** Corporate carpool services are typically private arrangements and not available to the general public, thus not considered public carriers. ### How are public carriers regulated in the United States? - [ ] By local municipalities only - [ ] No regulation exists - [x] By entities like the Department of Transportation - [ ] By international bodies only > **Explanation:** In the United States, public carriers are regulated by entities such as the Department of Transportation, which set safety and operational standards. ### Which type of carrier would typically engage in a contract-based service specifically for one entity? - [ ] Public Carrier - [x] Private Carrier - [ ] Common Carrier - [ ] Freight Forwarder > **Explanation:** A private carrier engages in contract-based services for specific entities and does not offer general public transportation services. ### What primary characteristic differentiates a common carrier from a private carrier? - [ ] Type of goods transported - [x] Availability of services to the general public - [ ] Ownership of vehicles - [ ] Pricing flexibility > **Explanation:** Common carriers are available to the general public, whereas private carriers provide transport for specific contracts or needs. ### Are public carriers liable for the goods they transport? - [x] Yes, generally, unless an exception applies - [ ] No, they have no liability - [ ] Only under certain contracts - [ ] Liability is shared with the sender > **Explanation:** Public carriers are generally liable for loss or damage during transit, except for exceptional uncontrollable circumstances. ### What is a key regulatory body for transportation within the United States? - [x] Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) - [ ] International Maritime Organization (IMO) - [ ] National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) - [ ] Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) > **Explanation:** The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is a key regulatory body overseeing the safety and operational standards of public carriers within the United States.

Thank you for diving deep into the concept of public carriers. Enhancing your comprehension here is crucial for navigating the complexities of the transportation and logistics industries.