What is a Shipment Contract? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

A shipment contract is a type of agreement in which the seller is responsible for sending goods to the buyer. The seller bears the risk of loss or damage to the items only until they are delivered to the shipping location. If the contract does not specify the terms of delivery, it is automatically considered a shipment contract. In this arrangement, the risk of loss transfers to the buyer at the moment the goods are shipped, which is also regarded as the point of delivery.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A furniture manufacturer sells a set of chairs to a retailer and ships them to the retailer's warehouse. The risk of loss transfers to the retailer once the chairs are handed over to the shipping company.

Example 2: A clothing distributor sends a shipment of apparel to a store. If the shipment is damaged during transit, the distributor is not liable for the loss, as the risk passed to the store when the items were shipped.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Difference
Shipment Contract Seller sends goods and risk transfers at shipment. Risk passes to buyer at shipping point.
Destination Contract Seller delivers goods to a specific destination. Seller bears risk until goods reach the destination.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are entering into a shipment contract, ensure that the terms are clearly defined, especially regarding risk transfer. Consider using legal templates from US Legal Forms to create or review your contract. If you encounter complex issues, consulting a legal professional is advisable.

Quick facts

  • Typical fees: Varies by transaction and legal counsel.
  • Jurisdiction: Governed by state contract laws.
  • Possible penalties: Depends on breach of contract terms.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A shipment contract is an agreement where the seller sends goods to the buyer, and risk transfers at the point of shipment.