Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) Practice Exam

Which type of carriers are available to the public, does not provide special treatment, and must publish rates?

1. Private carriers

2. Contract carriers

3. Common/public carriers

4. Exempt carriers

The correct answer is: Common/public carriers

Common carriers are those that provide transportation services to the general public and must adhere to regulations that require them to offer their services without discrimination. This means they cannot provide preferential treatment to any particular customer or group of customers. They are also required to publish their rates, ensuring that consumers can access and understand their pricing structure. The requirement to publish rates reflects a commitment to transparency and fairness in pricing, which is a hallmark of common carriers. This allows customers to make informed decisions based on the available options. Such carriers might include bus lines, freight companies, and airlines that are open to the public for service. In contrast, private carriers transport goods for their own business and do not provide services to the general public. Contract carriers have specific agreements with customers and can provide services that are not available to the public, often at negotiated rates. Exempt carriers are those that are not subject to the same regulations, usually due to the nature of the goods they transport or the specific circumstances of their operations.