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Jul 1, 2004 12:00 PM

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) and the National Industrial Transportation League (NITL) have teamed up to complete a Model Truckload Carrier/Shipper Agreement, to be used by motor carriers and shippers to structure their contracts. This model agreement was forged to help shippers and carriers make efficient and balanced negotiations.

ATA and NITL recognize that carriers' and shippers' misunderstandings of their rights and obligations may lead to disputes, liabilities and litigations. The model agreement is intended to minimize this. It is intended as a starting point for negotiations and covers many of the standard provisions, while avoiding legalese, according to NITL.

Provisions related to rates, charges, limitation of liability, level of carrier insurance, and other areas are left blank to be negotiated.

“This achievement is unprecedented and a big step forward in motor carrier/shipper relations,” said Bill Graves, ATA president and chief executive officer. “It benefits both parties by encouraging efficient and effective negotiations and the creation of meaningful contractual relationships.”

The model agreement is available free of charge at www.truckline.com and www.nitl.org.