conditions of carriage

Binding rules and regulations spelled out in a carrier's contract of carriage (or in the carrier's tariff) and applicable to all shippers and passengers irrespective of the amount of freight or fare paid. These conditions cover the obligations and rights of the carrier and the shipper/passenger from reservation of cargo-space/passenger-seat to the claims procedure as well as compensation payable in case of damage, loss, injury, or death. In most countries, freight-carriers' conditions are governed by Hague rules or Hague-Visby rules; and those of passenger-carriers,' by Warsaw Convention (as amended by Hague protocol). Also called terms and conditions of carriage.