Legal Definitions - filed-rate doctrine

The filed-rate doctrine is a legal principle that prohibits a regulated entity, typically a common carrier, from charging a rate that is different from the one that has been filed with the appropriate federal regulatory authority. This authority was formerly the Interstate Commerce Commission.

For example, if a shipping company has filed a rate of $100 for a particular route with the regulatory authority, it cannot charge a customer $120 for the same service. The company must adhere to the filed rate.

The filed-rate doctrine is designed to ensure that regulated entities do not engage in discriminatory pricing practices and that all customers are charged the same rate for the same service. It also provides transparency and predictability in pricing for both the regulated entity and its customers.