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Agricultural Transportation and Logistics Agreement

Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting · NAICS 11 · Transportation and Logistics Agreement

A Transportation and Logistics Agreement is essential for any agricultural operation that moves goods off the farm, ranch, or forest. Whether you're shipping grain to an elevator, livestock to a feedlot, or timber to a mill, this document sets clear terms for rates, responsibilities, and liability. It helps prevent misunderstandings about who is responsible for loading, delays, or damage, and ensures compliance with regulations like the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) for carriers. Use this template to create a professional contract that protects your interests and keeps your supply chain moving.

When you need this document

When hiring a trucking company to haul grain, hay, or produce to market or processing facilities.
When arranging for refrigerated transport of perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, or dairy.
When contracting with a livestock hauler to move cattle, hogs, or poultry.
When shipping forestry products such as logs, chips, or lumber to a mill or port.
When establishing an ongoing logistics relationship with a carrier for multiple shipments.

What the generated draft includes

Detailed description of the commodity and any special handling needs.
Scope of services including origin, destination, and loading/unloading duties.
Rate structure and payment terms, including fuel surcharges and accessorial fees.
Liability and insurance provisions, including cargo coverage minimums.
Compliance with applicable agricultural and transportation regulations.
Termination, force majeure, and dispute resolution clauses.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a Shipper and a Carrier?

The Shipper is the party that owns the goods and needs them transported (e.g., a farm or cooperative). The Carrier is the trucking company, railroad, or barge operator that physically moves the goods. This agreement defines the duties and liabilities of each.

Why do I need a written agreement if I've used the same hauler for years?

Even with a trusted hauler, a written agreement protects both parties by clarifying rates, payment terms, and liability in case of an accident, spoilage, or delay. It also helps ensure compliance with regulations like FSMA and FMCSA.

Does this agreement address food safety regulations?

Yes, the template includes a compliance clause that references applicable laws, including FSMA's Sanitary Transportation of Human and Animal Food rule, which requires certain carriers to follow sanitation practices. You can customize the special handling section for your specific product.

Self-help document generator: you get a structured draft based on the facts you provide. It is not legal, tax, or financial advice; verify jurisdiction-specific rules before sending.