There is a range of obligations which it is worth becoming acquainted with before you commission the transport of goods. This article suggests the actions to consider when commissioning a load and indicates what can lead to holding the sender liable for improper performance of the carriage contract.
Remember to ensure that the goods are properly packed. It is particularly important in the transport of dangerous goods or goods which can easily react with other materials. If the transported goods have properties which pose the risk of their loss or damage in the event of improper packaging (e.g. mattresses packed in soft film, transported together with sharp components as a single order; too large packaging with respect to the size of transported goods, which results in the packaging not protecting the goods in an appropriate way), the carrier will not be held liable in any of the cases specified above (the loss of or damage to the goods).
Make sure that goods are labeled with their characteristics and numbers, in other words – pay attention to the consignment’s label. Although carries are obliged to check the accuracy of this data included in the bill of landing, they can evade responsibility for any potential damage or loss of the goods after proving the sender’s insufficiency or defectiveness of characteristics or numbers on the consignment items.
When drawing up the contract, do not forget to include specifications for the carrier concerning means of transport by which you require having the ordered goods transported. It is the sender’s obligation to determine the type of vehicle that will be used for performance of the carriage contract. Specify, for example, precise air temperature or air humidity if the properties of transported goods require special conditions.
It is worth noting the sender’s responsibility which is attaching all necessary documents to the bill of lading or handing such documents over to the carrier, along with providing the carrier with necessary information (e.g. documents required during customs clearance; safety precautions in the transport of dangerous goods). As a sender, consider this duty with special care as you may risk being held liable for damages due to failure to provide documents or information, or as a result of insufficient or deficient documents or information being provided.