The Carriage of Goods by Sea Act (COGSA)

The Carriage of Goods by Sea Act (COGSA) is a U.S. law that governs the transportation of goods by ocean vessels. It establishes the rights and responsibilities of both shippers (those sending goods) and carriers (those transporting them). COGSA outlines the carrier's liability for loss or damage to cargo during transit, promoting fair practices in shipping. It provides standards for how goods should be handled and sets limits on the carrier's responsibility. This legislation helps ensure that international trade is conducted fairly and that businesses can rely on the safe delivery of their goods across the sea.