Understanding Line-Haul: Legal Definition and Importance in Freight Transport

Definition & Meaning

Line-haul refers to the transportation of freight between cities, specifically excluding any services related to pickup or delivery. This term is commonly used in the logistics and transportation industries to describe the main leg of a freight journey, where goods are moved over long distances via rail, truck, or other transport methods.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, a company may contract a freight carrier for line-haul services to transport goods from New York City to Chicago. The contract would specify that the carrier is responsible only for the transport between these two cities, not for picking up the goods from the sender's warehouse or delivering them to the recipient's location.

(Hypothetical example) A logistics firm may negotiate a line-haul agreement with a trucking company to move products from Los Angeles to Seattle, ensuring that the terms exclude any local delivery services.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Line-Haul Transportation of freight between cities, excluding pickup and delivery. Focuses on long-distance transport only.
Last-Mile Delivery The final leg of the delivery process, from a transportation hub to the final destination. Involves local delivery services, unlike line-haul.
Freight Forwarding Services that arrange the transport of goods on behalf of shippers. Includes a broader range of logistics services beyond just line-haul.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in shipping goods and need to understand line-haul services, start by reviewing your shipping contracts to ensure they clearly define the scope of line-haul. Consider using US Legal Forms to access templates for contracts that specify the terms of line-haul agreements. If your situation is complex or if you have specific legal questions, consulting with a legal professional is advisable.

Quick facts

  • Line-haul is essential for long-distance freight transport.
  • It excludes pickup and delivery services.
  • Contracts should clearly define line-haul terms to avoid confusion.
  • Liability during transport is a key consideration.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Line-haul refers to the transportation of freight between cities, excluding any pickup or delivery services.