What is Commercial Cargo? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

The term commercial cargo refers to any goods or materials transported on a commercial vessel. This includes items moved for business purposes and passengers who are being transported for a fee. However, certain items are excluded from this definition, such as:

  • Bunker fuel and ship's stores
  • Equipment necessary for the operation of the vessel
  • Fish or other aquatic animals that have not been previously landed on shore

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A shipping company transports electronics from a manufacturer in China to a retailer in the United States. This shipment qualifies as commercial cargo.

Example 2: A fishing vessel returns to port with a catch of fish that has been previously landed on shore. This cargo would not be considered commercial cargo under the definition.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Commercial cargo Goods transported for business on a commercial vessel. Includes a broad range of items transported for profit.
Personal cargo Goods transported for personal use, not for business. Does not involve commercial transactions.
Freight Goods transported by truck, train, ship, or airplane. Can include both commercial and personal cargo.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in transporting goods on a commercial vessel, ensure you understand the definitions and regulations surrounding commercial cargo. You may want to consult legal templates available through US Legal Forms to assist in compliance with tax obligations and shipping procedures. If your situation is complex, consider seeking professional legal advice.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Definition Goods transported for business on a commercial vessel.
Exclusions Bunker fuel, ship's stores, unlanded aquatic life.
Relevant Law 26 USCS § 4462
Application Maritime law, tax regulations.

Key takeaways

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