Legal Definitions - public carrier

A public carrier is an individual or organization that contracts to transport passengers or goods for a fee. They are also known as common carriers and are required by law to transport freight or passengers without refusal if the approved fare or charge is paid.

• Airlines
• Railroads
• Shipping companies

For example, if you want to ship a package through a shipping company, they are considered a public carrier. They are required to transport your package as long as you pay the approved fee.

Another example is if you purchase a ticket to fly on an airline, they are considered a public carrier. They are required to transport you to your destination as long as you pay the approved fare.

Overall, public carriers are responsible for transporting goods or passengers for a fee and are required by law to do so if the approved payment is made.