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A Freight Forwarding Agreement is a legal contract between a business and a freight forwarder who manages the transportation of goods. Under Austrian law, these agreements follow the General Austrian Forwarders' Terms and Conditions (AÖSp), which set clear rules for handling cargo, customs clearance, and logistics services.

The agreement spells out key details like shipping routes, delivery timelines, insurance coverage, and payment terms. It protects both parties by defining who's responsible when shipments are delayed or damaged, following Austria's strict cargo liability regulations. Most Austrian freight forwarders require these contracts before arranging international shipments or managing complex supply chains.

Use a Freight Forwarding Agreement when shipping goods internationally through Austrian ports or across European borders. This document becomes essential once your business needs to coordinate multiple transportation methods, handle customs clearance, or manage complex logistics chains that go beyond simple point-to-point delivery.

The agreement is particularly important when dealing with high-value cargo, temperature-sensitive goods, or time-critical shipments. Austrian law requires detailed documentation for international trade, and having this agreement in place helps comply with AÖSp regulations while protecting your business from liability issues, customs delays, and disputes over handling responsibilities.

• General Forwarding Agreement: Covers basic cargo transport and handling, following standard AÖSp terms for routine shipments within the EU
• Specialized Logistics Contract: Includes additional provisions for specialized cargo like hazardous materials or temperature-controlled goods
• Multimodal Transport Agreement: Details coordination across different transport methods (sea, air, road) with specific liability terms for each mode
• Customs Clearance Extension: Focuses on expanded customs handling services and documentation for non-EU shipments
• Value-Added Services Agreement: Incorporates warehousing, packaging, or distribution services beyond basic freight forwarding

• Freight Forwarders: Austrian logistics companies that arrange cargo transport, handle customs documentation, and coordinate shipping services under AÖSp regulations
• Export Companies: Businesses shipping goods internationally who need reliable transport management and customs handling
• Legal Departments: Corporate lawyers who review and customize forwarding agreements to protect company interests
• Customs Brokers: Specialists who ensure compliance with Austrian and EU customs regulations
• Insurance Providers: Companies offering cargo insurance and evaluating liability coverage within the agreements

• Shipment Details: Gather exact cargo specifications, pickup/delivery locations, and required transit times
• Service Scope: Define which services are needed - transport modes, customs clearance, warehousing, or special handling
• Risk Assessment: Document cargo value, insurance requirements, and liability limits under AÖSp guidelines
• Compliance Check: Verify all parties have valid licenses and meet Austrian transport regulations
• Cost Structure: List all fees, surcharges, and payment terms clearly
• Documentation: Collect required permits, customs forms, and transport certificates

• Party Details: Full legal names, addresses, and registration numbers of the forwarder and client
• Service Description: Detailed scope of logistics services under AÖSp guidelines
• Liability Terms: Clear limits and conditions aligned with Austrian forwarding regulations
• Payment Terms: Pricing structure, payment schedule, and currency specifications
• Insurance Coverage: Required insurance types and minimum coverage amounts
• Dispute Resolution: Austrian jurisdiction clause and arbitration procedures
• Force Majeure: Specific circumstances excusing performance under Austrian law

A Freight Forwarding Agreement differs significantly from a Broker Agreement, though both involve intermediary services. Let's explore the key distinctions to help you choose the right document for your needs.

• Scope of Services: Freight forwarders actively manage physical goods and logistics operations, while brokers only connect parties and negotiate terms without handling cargo
• Legal Liability: Freight forwarders assume direct responsibility under AÖSp regulations for cargo safety and customs compliance, whereas brokers bear limited liability for transaction outcomes
• Operational Control: Freight forwarding agreements cover detailed logistics procedures and specific handling requirements; broker agreements focus on transaction terms and commission structures
• Insurance Requirements: Freight forwarders must maintain cargo insurance and transport liability coverage; brokers typically need only professional liability insurance