What defines a carrier in transportation operations?

A carrier in transportation operations is defined as a firm that is responsible for the transportation of goods or people across various modes, including land, sea, or air. This definition underscores the essential role that carriers play in logistics and supply chain management, as they have the capacity and authority to move products or passengers from one location to another.

Carriers can vary in size and type, ranging from large freight companies operating extensive fleets of trucks and ships, to regional airlines and local transport services. By facilitating the physical movement of items, carriers are integral to the functioning of both domestic and international trade. Their operations often involve a complex network of logistics, compliance with various regulations, and coordination with other parties in the supply chain, such as manufacturers, shippers, and receivers.

Understanding the carrier's role helps to clarify other functions in transportation operations. For instance, while overseeing customs documentation and managing shipping schedules are important tasks, they do not encapsulate the primary definition of a carrier. Additionally, platforms for market exchanges of freight services pertain more to the brokerage aspect of transportation rather than the carrier's fundamental responsibility of transporting goods or people.