47.001
Definitions
FAR 47.001 establishes precise definitions for transportation terms, ensuring clarity and consistency in government shipping contracts.
Overview
FAR 47.001 provides definitions for key terms used throughout Part 47, which governs transportation in government contracting. Understanding these definitions is essential for interpreting requirements related to shipping, carrier selection, documentation, and liability in federal contracts involving the movement of goods. The section clarifies distinctions between types of bills of lading, carriers, and other transportation-related concepts, ensuring all parties use consistent terminology in contract performance and compliance.
Key Rules
- Bill of Lading Types
- Differentiates between commercial and government bills of lading, specifying their accountability and use in government shipments.
- Carrier Classifications
- Defines common and contract carriers, clarifying their roles and obligations in government transportation contracts.
- Government Rate Tender
- Explains special rate offers by carriers to the government, which may be below public rates.
- Household Goods
- Specifies what qualifies as household goods for transportation purposes, including who may arrange and pay for such shipments.
- Noncontiguous Domestic Trade
- Defines transportation subject to regulation for shipments to or from Alaska, Hawaii, or U.S. territories.
- Released or Declared Value
- Establishes how the value of cargo is determined for reimbursement and liability in case of loss or damage.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must use and enforce these definitions when drafting, negotiating, and administering transportation contracts.
- Contractors: Must understand and apply these terms accurately in documentation, billing, and claims.
- Agencies: Ensure consistent application of definitions for compliance, reporting, and dispute resolution.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures all parties have a common understanding of transportation terms, reducing misinterpretation and disputes.
- Accurate use of these definitions is critical for compliance, especially regarding liability, documentation, and rate application.
- Misunderstanding these terms can lead to contractual errors, improper billing, or liability issues.