Terms and Conditions for Freight Forwarding Services

1. Definitions

Stargate Shipping: The entity providing freight forwarding services.

Shipper: The party contracting the Carrier for transportation services.

Consignee: The party receiving the goods.

2. Services Provided

The Carrier offers logistics, transportation, warehousing, and related services as per the Shipper's requests.

3. Rates and Charges

Service rates are based on quotes from the Carrier and may vary due to market conditions and other factors.

Additional fees may apply for services outside normal business hours or under special circumstances.

4. Documentation and Bills of Lading

All shipments are governed by the Carrier's Bill of Lading terms and conditions.

The Carrier is not bound by unauthorized non-conforming bills of lading used by third parties.

5. Liability and Insurance

The Carrier's liability for loss or damage to goods is limited as per the Bill of Lading.

Shippers are advised to obtain insurance to cover potential losses.

6. Prohibited and Restricted Items

Certain items, including hazardous materials and prohibited commodities, are not accepted for transportation.

Shippers must disclose the nature of hazardous materials and comply with all regulations.

Shippers must ensure to declare the correct commodity in shipping documents provided to Stargate Shipping.

Shippers will be liable for any claims or damages arising from the erroneous declaration of goods.

7. Impractical Operations

The Carrier may refuse service to locations where operating is impractical due to road conditions, inadequate facilities, or other hazards.

8. Indemnity

The Shipper agrees to indemnify and hold the Carrier harmless from claims arising from the transportation of goods, except where the Carrier is negligent.

9. Choice of Law and Dispute Resolution

These terms are governed by the laws of the jurisdiction where the Carrier is based.

Disputes will be resolved through arbitration or as specified in the Carrier's terms.

10. Appointments and Delivery Times

Pick-ups and deliveries are scheduled during normal business hours. After-hours services incur additional charges.

The Carrier is not liable for delays caused by circumstances beyond its control.

11. Dropped Trailers

Shippers are responsible for the Carrier's trailers left at their location until the Carrier takes possession of the loaded goods.

12. Brokering and Interlining

The Carrier may subcontract services to third-party carriers, with liability limited to the Carrier's terms and conditions.

- Customs Clearance and Documentation:

• Ensure compliance with Sri Lankan Customs regulations for import and export documentation.
• Require shippers to provide accurate and complete documentation as per Sri Lankan Customs requirements.
• Specify that any fines, penalties, or delays due to incorrect or incomplete documentation will be the responsibility of the shipper/consignee.

- Duties and Taxes:

• Clarify that duties, taxes, and customs fees imposed by Sri Lankan Customs or other authorities are the responsibility of the shipper or consignee.
• Specify that the shipper must provide accurate information regarding the value and classification of goods to facilitate correct duty assessment.

- Restricted and Prohibited Goods:

• Adhere to Sri Lankan Customs regulations regarding restricted and prohibited goods.
• Specify that the shipper must declare accurately if the shipment contains any restricted items, ensuring compliance with Sri Lankan laws and regulations.

- Customs Inspections and Holds:

• Acknowledge that shipments may be subject to inspection by Sri Lankan Customs.
• Specify that any costs or delays resulting from customs inspections or holds are the responsibility of the shipper or consignee.

- Permits and Licenses:

• Require shippers to obtain any necessary permits or licenses required by Sri Lankan Customs for the import or export of specific goods.
• Specify that the shipper is responsible for providing proof of such permits or licenses upon request.

- Customs Bonds and Security:

• Clarify any requirements for customs bonds or security deposits imposed by Sri Lankan Customs.
• Specify that the shipper is responsible for arranging and covering the costs associated with customs bonds or security requirements.

- Dispute BResolution with Customs:

• Outline procedures for resolving disputes with Sri Lankan Customs, including the handling of appeals and disputes over customs duties, fines, or penalties.
• Specify that any legal fees or costs associated with disputes with Sri Lankan Customs will be the responsibility of the shipper or consignee.