Glossary term
Common Carrier
A carrier that offers transport to the public generally, and cannot arbitrarily refuse a lawful shipment.
A carrier holding itself out to carry for anyone, as distinct from a contract carrier serving particular customers under negotiated terms.
In legal systems that recognise the category, common carrier status carries obligations - to accept lawful goods, to charge published rates, and a stricter standard of liability. The concept is weaker or absent in some jurisdictions, so it should not be assumed.