Consent To Terms of Tariff

Consent to Terms of Tariff refers to the agreement made by a shipper or a consignee to abide by the terms and conditions set forth in a carrier’s tariff document. A tariff is a comprehensive document that outlines various aspects of shipping, including rates, rules, regulations, and services provided by the carrier.

Within the logistics industry, this concept is significant for several reasons: 

• Legal Framework: Consent to Terms of Tariff creates a legally binding contract that defines the rights and responsibilities of both parties.  
• Rate Structure: Tariffs specify the rates charged by the carrier for various services, such as transportation, handling, and storage.  
• Liability and Claims: The terms of tariff often outline the carrier’s liability limits and procedures for filing claims in case of loss or damage to cargo.  
• Compliance: Shippers and consignees must adhere to the carrier’s rules and regulations outlined in the tariff. Failure to do so can result in disputes or even legal action. 

• Negotiation: In some cases, shippers may negotiate specific terms with carriers, but these negotiated rates and conditions must still align with the carrier’s published tariff. 
• International Trade: Consent to Terms of Tariff becomes even more critical in global trade, where various carriers, modes of transportation, and regulations are involved.  
• Dispute Resolution: If conflicts arise during transportation, the terms of tariff provide a framework for dispute resolution, which can help parties avoid costly litigation.