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Metrix Logistics Group, LLC/Hallmark Trucking LLC.

Please note that due to Covid-19, appointments will be limited as we must ensure the health and safety of our staff members and drivers. Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time.

WAREHOUSE NOTICE: Any deliveries and or pickups from any Metrix warehouse locations will need to have a prior appointment scheduled. They can be obtained through either email appointment@metrixlogisticsgroup.com and or calling 281-809-6990. We appreciate your help.

CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: The information in this email may be confidential and/or privileged. This email is intended to be reviewed only by the individual or organization named above. If you are not the intended recipient or an authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination, or copying of this email and its attachments, if any, or the information contained herein is prohibited. If you have received this email in error, please immediately notify the sender by return email and delete this email from your system.

DISCLAIMER: All rates and services are subject to Hallmark Trucking LLC’s and Metrix Logistics Group, LLC’s Terms & Conditions, which are available upon request. Hallmark’s and Metrix’s liability will not exceed $100,000 per shipment (“Release Value”), unless the Shipper submits a written request for a higher Release Value, pays an additional charge based on the increased Released Value, and obtains written confirmation of the higher Release Value from an Officer. In no event will Hallmark or Metrix be liable for lost profits, consequential damages, or punitive damages.

Terms and Conditions

Metrix Logistics Group, LLC (also referred to herein as “Company”, “Metrix”, “Broker”, and “Warehouseman”) is a licensed broker, and Company also provides warehousing services. The Brokerage Terms and Conditions herein shall apply when Company provides services under its brokerage authority. When Company stores goods at its facility, issues a warehouse receipt or otherwise acts as a warehouseman, the Warehouse Terms and Conditions herein shall apply, and Company’s liability shall be that of a warehouseman.

When cargo is transported by an unaffiliated motor carrier, broker services are provided by Metrix Logistics Group, LLC under MC-976471 and subject to Metrix Logistics Group, LLC’s Terms & Conditions. Warehousing services are also provided by Metrix Logistics Group, LLC and subject to Metrix Logistics Group, LLC’s Terms & Conditions. Metrix Logistics Group, LLC’s motor carrier affiliate, Hallmark Trucking LLC, performs services by transporting cargo on equipment owned or leased to Hallmark Trucking LLC under MC-136172.

Shipper and its agents’ consent to the use of Hallmark Trucking LLC to transport loads is needed. Shipper and its agents expressly agree that they will not attempt to hold Metrix Logistics Group, LLC liable in the capacity of a motor carrier. Shipper’s insertion of Hallmark Trucking LLC or Metrix Logistics Group, LLC (for a brokered load) as the carrier on a bill of lading or another document shall be for Shipper’s convenience only and shall not affect the status of the actual motor carrier transporting the property or brokerage entity arranging for transportation.

Shipper and its agents further agree they will not attempt to hold Hallmark Trucking LLC liable in the capacity of a broker, nor to attempt to make any claim against Hallmark Trucking LLC or Metrix Logistics Group, LLC in connection with transportation services performed by any other motor carrier. The carrier transporting the freight at issue (“Carrier”) shall be the sole party responsible in the capacity of a motor carrier. Shipper and its agents agree Hallmark Trucking LLC does not engage in warehousing, and Shipper and its agents agree they will not attempt to hold Hallmark Trucking LLC liable for warehousing services provided by Metrix Logistics Group, LLC, if any.

Hallmark Trucking LLC and Metrix Logistics Group, LLC are Texas limited liability companies, each of which (i) is solely responsible for its debts and obligations, and (ii) is not responsible for the debts and obligations of any other entity unless expressly agreed in writing. Shipper agrees that Hallmark Trucking LLC and Metrix Logistics Group, LLC shall not be liable, and Shipper will not attempt to hold them liable for the conduct of their affiliates or third parties. Similarly, Shipper agrees that Hallmark Trucking LLC and Metrix Logistics Group, LLC are not engaged in a partnership, joint venture, joint enterprise, or similar venture.

BROKERAGE TERMS & CONDITIONS

  1. Parties. The term “Customer” means the person or entity desiring to have the goods transported, sending the goods, or otherwise liable as a shipper under law. This definition includes the exporter, importer, sender, receiver, owner, consignor, consignee, transferor, transferee, forwarder, broker, and/or any other agents or representatives of Customer (not to include Broker). It is the responsibility of all such parties to provide notice and copies of these Terms and Conditions of Brokerage (“Terms and Conditions”) to each other. The term “Broker” means Metrix Logistics Group, LLC operating under MC 976471, the Broker is not acting and does not act, as either a motor carrier or a common carrier within the meaning of USC Title 49. The customer and its agents expressly agree that they will not under any circumstances attempt to hold the Broker liable in the capacity of a motor carrier. Customer or third party’s insertion of Broker as the carrier of record in any bill of lading, delivery order, or other documents will not alter or affect Broker’s status as a freight Broker. The carrier(s) transporting the freight at issue shall be solely responsible in the capacity of a motor carrier. The term “Carrier” shall refer solely to the motor carrier providing the actual transport.
  2. General. These Terms and Conditions apply to the services performed by Broker undertaken on the Customer’s behalf. These Terms and Conditions supersede all previous conditions of transportation and other prior statements concerning the rates and conditions of Broker’s services. These Terms and Conditions control in the event of any discrepancy or conflict between these Terms and Conditions and those of any Customer unless changes have been made by obtaining prior written approval by an Officer of Broker. Broker reserves the right from time to time to modify, amend or supplement these Terms and Conditions without notice. Copies of Broker’s most recent terms and conditions are available upon request. Broker’s terms and conditions in effect on the date of shipment shall apply. In the event that Broker and the Customer have entered into a signed, written contract containing terms and conditions different than those set forth in these Terms and Conditions, the signed, written contract will control to the extent that such terms conflict with these Terms and Conditions. These Terms and Conditions apply to Broker, not the Carrier actually providing the transportation services. In the event one of the Broker’s affiliates actually transports a load, such transportation shall be subject to the affiliate’s terms and conditions, which are available upon request.
  3. Service. The Broker will arrange for transportation of the Customer’s freight pursuant to these Terms and Conditions. Broker’s responsibility will be limited to arranging for, but not actually performing, transportation of Customer’s freight. Broker does not exercise or retain any control or supervision over any carrier, its operations, employees, or contractors. Broker reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to refuse any shipment at any time. The relationship between Broker and Customer is that of one independent contractor with another, and nothing herein is intended to create a joint venture, partnership, agency, or any employment relationship. Broker reserves the right to refer shipments to, and Customer approves such use of, Broker’s affiliates to provide transportation services for any shipment.
  4. Rates and Fees. Quotes are based on information provided by the Customer. Unless indicated, the price excludes charges for detention time, per diem, and additional stops. The Customer will be liable for all additional charges incurred relating to the transportation of the Customer’s freight. The quoted rate depends on the weight, dimension, and released value of the property described. Any changes to the actual released value, dimension, description, or weight of the load may result in revisions to the quoted price. Unless otherwise indicated by Customer in writing and confirmed by an Officer of Broker, Broker’s rates are based on a limited released value of $ 100,000 and Broker will not be responsible for loss or damage in excess of $ 100,000.
  5. Payments. Broker or Broker’s affiliate will invoice Customer for Broker’s services in accordance with the rates, charges and provisions negotiated and agreed to between Customer and Broker. The Customer agrees to pay Broker’s invoice within 30 days of the invoice date without deduction or setoff. As a convenience to the Customer, invoices may be processed by Broker’s affiliated entity and such administrative support in issuing invoices will not alter Broker’s role in connection with a particular shipment, as the act of invoicing is purely administrative function performed independent of arranging for transportation services. In the event of a loss, the Customer’s claim and any remedies will be directed to and the sole responsibility of the actual Carrier performing transportation services for the particular shipment at issue, to the extent of any claim for loss, damage, or delay.
  6. Liability for Loss, Damage, or Delay. The Broker will assist with the processing of claims on behalf of its Customers. However, BROKER is not liable for the delay to cargo or loss or damage to cargo UNLESS the loss or damage is caused by the SOLE negligence OR FAULT of BROKER. THIS RELEASE SHALL INCLUDE SITUATIONS WHERE THE BROKER IS CONCURRENTLY NEGLIGENT OR AT FAULT. In no event WILL BROKER be liable for any special, incidental, or consequential damages, including damages relating to the loss of profits, whether or not such damages were reasonably foreseeable. The motor carrier performing the transportation is responsible for their conduct. BROKER shall be entitled to all limitations of liability, rights, and protections available to the carrier including, but not limited to the terms in the bill of lading, terms and conditions, rules tariff, and other documents. bROKER WILL not BE liable for PERsonal injury or death or property damage ARISING FROM, RELATED TO, OR CONNECTED WITH THE CONDUCT OF the motor carrier.
  7. Force Majeure. The Broker will not be liable for failure to perform any of its obligations under these Terms and Conditions during any time in which such performance is prevented by circumstances beyond Broker’s control, including but not limited to an act of God, fire, flood, or other natural disasters, war, embargo, riot, strike, lock-out, labor disturbance, civil disobedience, or the intervention of any government authority, or any other cause outside of the reasonable control of Broker.
  8. Disclaimer of Warranties. Except as expressly provided in these Terms and Conditions, Broker makes no warranties, express or implied, including without limitation, warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, with regard to shipments, warehoused goods, items in transit or deliveries or with regard to the information provided on the website or services related to transactions conducted on the website. The Broker cannot guarantee delivery by any specific time or date.
  9. 9. Notice of Claims
    1. 1. Freight Claims. Customer must give Broker written notice of any claims for cargo loss or damage within 180 days from the date of such loss, shortage, or damage, which for purposes of these Terms and Conditions will be the delivery date or, in the event of non-delivery, the scheduled delivery date. Customer must file any civil action against Broker in a court of law not later than 2 years from the date of delivery or if delivery was not completed, the expected date of delivery.
    2. Payment of Claims by Broker. If payment of the claim is made by Broker to Customer, Customer automatically assigns its rights and interest in the claim to Broker and agrees to execute any documents that may be necessary for connection with such assignment. All damage claims will be handled directly with the Carrier or its insurance representatives. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this provision does not obligate the Broker to pay any claim.
    3. All Other Claims. Customer shall notify Broker of all known material details within 91 days of receiving notice of any facts giving rise to a claim other than cargo loss or damage claims, or else such claims are waived. Customer shall update Broker promptly thereafter as more information becomes available. Civil action or arbitration, if any, must be commenced within 2 years from the date of the event giving rise to the claim.
  10. Customer Responsibilities. The Customer must properly mark, pack and label cargo so it will safely endure ordinary handling in transit. By tendering a shipment to the Carrier(s), the Customer certifies that the shipment is sufficiently packaged to withstand the normal hazards of truck transportation. Customer shall be responsible to Broker for timely and accurate delivery instructions and description of the cargo, including any high value, special value, special handling, or security requirements, for any shipment. Any article susceptible to damage by ordinary handling must be adequately protected and packaged and marked in such a way as to alert the Carrier(s) of the possibility of damage from ordinary handling and must bear appropriate labels. Customer shall provide the Carrier(s) with access to the facilities necessary to load or unload the tendered shipments. The Customer is solely responsible for maintaining the loading and unloading facilities in a good and safe condition, and in compliance with all applicable laws, codes and regulations. Customer hereby waives and releases BROKER from any liability for any loss or damage to Customer’s facilities or Customer’s personal property located on such facilities. The Broker will not be responsible for stolen, lost, or damaged goods, containers, chassis, or other equipment after such items have been delivered. Customer will reimburse Broker for any costs Broker pays or incurs with regard to theft, loss, or other damage to goods, containers, chassis, or other equipment occurring after delivery of the shipment.
  11. Shipments not Accepted. The Customer will not tender shipments for transportation of explosives, shipments requiring “protective security service or armed guard surveillance,” human remains, precious metals, currency, object d’art, collection, antiques or precious stones, jewelry, manufactured tobacco products, ammunition, or any items of unusual value.
  12. HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. The Customer shall comply with all applicable laws and regulations relating to the transportation of hazardous materials as defined in 49 CFR §172.800, §173, and §397 et seq. to the extent that any shipments constitute hazardous materials. The Customer is obligated to inform the Broker immediately if any such shipments constitute hazardous materials. Customer agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless BROKER and its officers, employees, agents, and insurers against all claims, liabilities, losses, fines, reasonable attorney fees, and other expenses arising out of or related to the release of any hazardous material, including without limitation, fines or expenses related to the removal or treatment of hazardous material or other remedial ACTION PERTAINING to the hazardous material under federal or state law, if Customer fails to provide advanced notice prior to tendering hazardous material to BROKER; the contact, exposure or release resulted from the improper packaging or loading or other acts or omissions of the Customer, its employees or agents; AND the contact, exposure or release occurred subsequent to the transport of the hazardous material by BROKER or the Carriers.
  13. Surety Bond. The Broker will maintain a surety bond or trust fund agreement as required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and furnish the Customer with proof upon request.
  14. Default. Both Broker and Customer will discuss any perceived deficiency in performance and will promptly endeavor to resolve all disputes. However, if either party materially fails to perform its duties under these Terms and Conditions, the party claiming default may terminate its duties upon written notice to the other party. Customer shall be responsible in paying the Broker for any services performed prior to the termination of duties and for shipments not yet completed and/or not yet invoiced to Customer.
  15. Non-Waiver. The failure or refusal of either party to insist upon the strict performance of any provision of these Terms and Conditions or to exercise any right in any one or more instances or circumstances will not be construed as a waiver or relinquishment of such provision or right, nor will such failure or refusal be deemed a customary practice contrary to such provision or right.
  16. Venue and Jurisdiction. These Terms and Conditions shall be subject to and governed by the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to choice-of-law principles and irrespective of the fact that one or more of the parties may be or may become a resident of a different state. The parties agree that any and all disputes under this Agreement shall be filed in the appropriate county, state, and federal courts located within Harris, Texas. Customer hereby waives any claims or objections to personal jurisdiction and/or that such courts will be improper or inconvenient forums.

WAREHOUSE TERMS & CONDITIONS

  1. Definitions:
    • “Warehouseman” shall refer to Metrix Logistics Group, LLC.
    • “Customer” shall refer to the person or entity tendering the goods, the person or entity holding title to the goods, and the owner of the goods and their employees, contractors, invitees, and agents.
    • “Warehouse” shall refer to any warehouse or storage facility owned, leased by, or operated by Warehouseman where Customer’s goods are stored pursuant to an agreement between Customer and Warehouseman.
    • “Terms and Conditions” shall refer to this agreement.
  2. Applications:
    These Terms and Conditions shall apply to all of Customer’s goods tendered to Warehouseman and stored at Warehouseman’s Warehouses. If Customer is not the owner of the goods or does not have title to the goods, Customer agrees that it acts as the owner’s and title holder’s agent and also agrees to these Terms and Conditions on behalf of the owner and title holder of the goods and other interested parties.
  3. Shipment of Goods to Warehouse.Customer shall identify Customer as to the named consignee on all goods shipped to the Warehouse. Customer shall not ship goods to or from the Warehouse, naming Warehouseman as the consignee on a bill of lading or other shipment documents. Warehouseman has no beneficial title or interest in Customer’s goods, and Customer agrees to notify motor carriers that Warehouseman is providing warehousing services and to notify motor carriers of the actual consignee.
    • If goods which name Warehouseman as consignee are inadvertently shipped and accepted, Customer shall immediately notify Warehouseman and the motor carrier in writing that Warehouseman is the “in care of party” only and has no beneficial title or interest in Customer’s goods.
    • Customer shall indemnify, Defend and hold harmless WAREHOUSEMAN; ITS AFfiliates (“Affiliates” and “Affiliate” is defined as another organization or partnership with common ownership, management, facilities, employees, equipment or interests) ITS OTHER customers; and Warehouseman’s, Its AFFILIATES’, and its OTHER customers’ Trustees, officers, directors, employees, and agents, (WAREHOUSEMAN Group) of the ABOVE-MENTIONED entities from any and all claims for unpaid transportation charges related to Customer’s goods, of any kind whatsoever and to whoever owed, including detention, demurrage, and all other charges, without regard to whether WAREHOUSEMAN was named consignee or whether WAREHOUSEMAN knew or should have known it was the named consignee on a bill of lading or other shipping documents.
  4. Tender of Goods for Storage. Customer shall deliver all goods for storage at the Warehouse properly marked and packaged for handling.
    • Customer shall furnish at or prior to such delivery a manifest showing marks, brands, or sizes to be kept and accounted for separately and the class of storage and other services desired. Otherwise, the goods may be stored in bulk or assorted lots in general storage at the discretion of the Warehouseman, and charges for such storage will be made at the applicable storage rate.
    • Receipt and delivery of all or any unit of a lot shall be made without subsequent sorting except as agreed and subject to a charge.
    • Warehouseman shall store and deliver goods only in the packages in which they are originally received unless otherwise agreed to in writing.
    • Warehouseman shall not be responsible for segregating goods by production code date unless specifically agreed to in writing.
    • Copper, explosives, goods requiring “protective security service or armed guard surveillance,” human remains, precious metals, currency, object d’art, collection, antiques or precious stones, jewelry, manufactured tobacco products, ammunition, or any items of unusual value shall not be stored on Warehouseman’s premises without Warehouseman’s express written consent.
  5. Storage Charges. Warehouseman shall invoice Customer according to the Rate Confirmation or as otherwise quoted by Warehouseman or agreed in writing. Additionally, any rates, which may be verbally agreed upon, shall be deemed confirmed in writing where Warehouseman has billed the rate and Customer has paid it. All written confirmations of rates, including confirmations by billing and payment, shall be incorporated herein by this reference.
    • Customer shall pay Warehouseman storage charges and the charges for any additional services within 30 days of the invoice date without deduction or setoff.
    • Dunnage, bracing, packing materials, or other special supplies may be provided by Warehouseman for the Customer at a charge in addition to Warehouseman’s cost.
    • Storage charges include the ordinary labor involved in receiving goods at the door of the warehouse. Any additional labor requested will be charged by Warehouseman to the Customer.
    • Storage charges do not include bonded storage. An additional charge may apply if Warehouseman agrees to store any goods in bond. If a warehouse receipt covers goods in the U.S. Customs bond, such receipt shall be void upon the termination of the storage period fixed by law.
    • Customer may not offset claims for loss or damage to goods against the amount owed to Warehouseman unless otherwise agreed to in writing.
    • Warehouseman reserves the right to adjust rates for warehousing, storage, and affiliated services at its discretion, with 30 days advance notice.
    • Should Customer stop doing business or reduce its business with Warehouseman below levels agreed upon between the parties, Customer shall be liable for all unrecoverable contractually obligated charges for the agreed-upon term.
    • The Warehouseman may submit invoices through its affiliate and such administrative functions shall not alter the services outlined in these Terms and Conditions, make Warehouseman liable for its affiliates’ conduct, or establish any kind of joint liability between Warehouseman and its Affiliates.
  6. Instructions to transfer goods on the books of Warehouseman are not effective until delivered to and received by Warehouseman, and all charges up to the time transfer are made are chargeable to the Customer of record. If a transfer involves re-handling the goods, such re-handling will be subject to charges at Warehouseman’s standard rates.
  7. Termination of Storage. The Warehouseman may at any time require the removal of any goods by the end of the next succeeding calendar month by providing written notice to the Customer. If goods are not removed before the end of the next succeeding calendar month, the Warehouseman may dispose of the goods in accordance with applicable law.
  8. Handling of Goods. Warehouseman shall provide the ordinary labor involved in receiving goods at the door of the warehouse, placing goods in storage, and releasing the goods at the door of the warehouse. Customer shall pay Warehouseman for services requested other than ordinary handling and storage.
    • Customer shall pay Warehouseman for Warehouseman’s additional expenses in receiving and returning damaged goods and loading or unloading goods at a place other than the warehouse door.
    • Warehouseman shall not be required to store goods in a humidity-controlled or temperature-controlled environment.
    • Customer may be subject to an escort fee if Customer’s access to Warehouseman’s premises requires that Warehouseman personnel escort Customer.
    • CUSTOMER shall not use Warehouseman’s Equipment (including, but not limited to, loading, unloading, handling, CRATING, packaging, and construction equipment) without written permission from Warehouseman. If Warehouseman allows Customer to use any of WAREHOUSEMAN group’s equipment for any reason, Customer acknowledges that Customer accepts all risk and responsibility of damage to property and injury and/or death to any person(s) arising from such use. Customer shall ensure that any person using Warehouseman group’s equipment shall be qualified and certified in accordance with OSHA REQUIREMENTS and all applicable statutes AND regulations to operate the equipment in the conditions presented. CUSTOMER SHALL INDEMNIFY, DEFEND, AND HOLD HARMLESS Warehouseman group FROM ANY CLAIM, ACTION, LOSS, LIABILITY, OR REASONABLE EXPENSE ARISING FROM CUSTOMER’s use of Warehouseman’s equipment, EVEN IF SUCH CLAIM, ACTION, LOSS, LIABILITY, OR REASONABLE EXPENSES (INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, ALL COSTS, EXPENSES, AND ATTORNEYS’ FEES), IS CAUSED IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY A PRE-EXISTING DEFECT in SAID equipment.
    • Warehouseman Group shall not be liable for damages to Customer’s and Customer’s contractors’ loading, unloading, packaging, and related equipment and materials or damages to person or property arising from the use of such equipment and materials, except to the extent of Warehouseman’s proportionate fault. CUSTOMER SHALL INDEMNIFY, DEFEND, AND HOLD HARMLESS Warehouseman Group FROM ANY CLAIM ACTION, LOSS, LIABILITY, OR REASONABLE EXPENSE ARISING FROM SUCH equipment OR MATERIALS OR THE USE THEREOF, EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT OF Warehouseman Group’s proportionate fault.
  9. No goods shall be released or transferred except upon receipt by Warehouseman of complete written instructions. However, when no negotiable receipt is outstanding, goods may be released upon instruction by telephone, but Warehouseman shall not be responsible for loss or error occasioned thereby.
    • Customer shall afford Warehouseman a reasonable time to release goods and shall afford Warehouseman at least 10 business days after receipt of a delivery order to locate any misplaced goods. If Warehouseman has exercised reasonable care and is unable, due to causes beyond its control, to release goods before expiration of the current storage period, the goods will be subject to storage charges for each succeeding storage period. If Warehouseman is unable to release goods because of acts of God, flood, war, public enemies, seizure under legal process, strikes, lockouts, riots, and civil commotions, other force majeure causes, or any reason beyond Warehouseman’s control, or because of loss or destruction of goods for which Warehouseman is not liable, or because of any other excuse provided by law, Warehouseman shall not be liable for failure to release the goods and the goods remaining in storage will continue to be subject to regular storage charges.
    • All instructions and requests for release or transfer of title are received subject to satisfaction of all charges, liens, and security interests of Warehouseman with respect to the goods whether for accrued charges, advances, or otherwise.
    • The warehouseman may require, as a condition precedent to releasing a statement from Customer holding Warehouseman harmless from claims of others asserting a superior right to Customer to possession of the goods. Nothing herein shall prevent Warehouseman from exercising any other remedy available to it under the law to resolve conflicting claims to possession of the goods. All costs, including attorney’s fees, incurred by Warehouseman relating to Warehouseman’s activities referred to in this subsection may be charged to Customer and shall be subject to Warehouseman’s lien described herein.
  10. Warehouseman Group’s Limited Liability.
    • Warehouseman GROUP SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS OR INJURY TO GOODS STORED HOWEVER CAUSED UNLESS SUCH LOSS OR INJURY RESULTED FROM THE FAILURE BY Warehouseman GROUP TO EXERCISE SUCH CARE IN REGARD TO THEM AS A REASONABLY CAREFUL WAREHOUSE WOULD EXERCISE UNDER LIKE CIRCUMSTANCES AND Warehouseman IS NOT LIABLE FOR DAMAGES WHICH COULD NOT HAVE BEEN AVOIDED BY THE EXERCISE OF SUCH CARE. Warehouseman GROUP and CUSTOMER agree that Warehouseman GROUP’S duty of care does not extend to providing a sprinkler system at the warehouse or any portion thereof.
    • Warehouseman GROUP shall not be liable in contract, tort, or otherwise for incidental, special, consequential, exemplary, or punitive damages in connection with its performance under THESE TERMS, including without limitation, lost profits, and lost opportunity, even if such damages were reasonably foreseeable and even if Warehouseman GROUP was notified of the possibility of such damages AND EVEN IF SUCH CLAIM, ACTION, LOSS, LIABILITY, OR REASONABLE EXPENSES IS CAUSED IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY A PRE-EXISTING DEFECT, THE NEGLIGENCE (WHETHER SOLE, JOINT OR CONCURRENT), GROSS NEGLIGENCE, STRICT LIABILITY OR OTHER LEGAL FAULT OF Warehouseman GROUP (OR ANY SUCH INDEMNITEE).
    • IN THE EVENT OF LOSS, DAMAGE, OR DESTRUCTION TO GOODS FOR WHICH Warehouseman Group IS LEGALLY LIABLE, CUSTOMER AGREES THAT Warehouseman Group’s MAXIMUM LIABILITY SHALL not exceed $100,000.00 (“RELEASE RATE”). CUSTOMER MAY, HOWEVER, REQUEST AN INCREASE TO THE MAXIMUM LIABILITY OF Warehouseman Group BY: A.) SUBMITTING A WRITTEN REQUEST FOR A HIGHER MAXIMUM LIABILITY BEFORE the GOODS ARE tendered to Warehouseman, b.) paying an additional charge based on the increased maximum liability, and c.) obtaining written confirmation of the higher maximum liability from an officer of Warehouseman. This maximum liability applies to the aggregate of all of Customer’s goods stored BY Warehouseman at any given time.
    • Under no circumstances shall WAREHOUSEMAN GROUP’s liability for loss or damage to goods exceed THE GREATER OF 1) the amount available to cover the loss or damage under WAREHOUSEMAN GROUP’s insurance, wHICH IS subject to the POLICY conditions, then existing coverage limits, and amount remaining under the policy for coverage, OR 2) $500 for all of the customer’s goods in the possession of WAREHOUSEMAN GROUP; UNLESS CUSTOMER 1) submits a written request for WAREHOUSEMAN GROUP to be liable in excess of WAREHOUSEMAN’s insurance coverage, 2) pays an additional charge, as applicable, based on the increased liability, and 3) receives written confirmation from an officer of WAREHOUSEMAN of acceptance of liability ABOVE insurance coverage; THIS limitation of liability shall not alter or affect WAREHOUSEMAN’s release RATE and the procedures contained herein to increase WAREHOUSEMAN’s release RATE. This maximum liability applies to the aggregate of all of Customer’s goods stored BY Warehouseman at any given time.
    • Warehouseman Group’S MAXIMUM LIABILITY REFERRED TO above SHALL BE CUSTOMER’S EXCLUSIVE REMEDY AGAINST Warehouseman Group OR ANY OF ITS AFFILIATES, EMPLOYEES, OFFICERS, AGENTS, REPRESENTATIVES, AND INSURERS FOR ANY CLAIM OR CAUSE OF ACTION WHATSOEVER RELATING TO LOSS, DAMAGE AND/OR DESTRUCTION OF GOODS AND SHALL APPLY TO ALL CLAIMS INCLUDING INVENTORY SHORTAGE AND MYSTERIOUS DISAPPEARANCE CLAIMS. Customer WAIVES ANY RIGHTS TO RELY UPON ANY PRESUMPTION OF CONVERSION IMPOSED BY LAW.
    • WHERE LOSS OR INJURY OCCURS TO STORED GOODS, FOR WHICH Warehouseman Group IS NOT LIABLE, Customer SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST OF REMOVING AND DISPOSING OF SUCH GOODS AND THE COST OF ANY ENVIRONMENTAL CLEANUP AND SITE REMEDIATION RESULTING FROM THE LOSS OR INJURY TO THE GOODS.
  11. Indemnification by Customer. CUSTOMER SHALL INDEMNIFY, DEFEND, AND HOLD Harmless Warehouseman Group, Warehouseman’s AFfiliates, LIENHOLDER, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE AGENTS FROM: any INJURY to or death of any person; any damage to or loss of property; any environmental damage including spills and pollution; AND ANY RESULTING OR RELATED CLAIM, ACTION, LOSS, LIABILITY, OR REASONABLE EXPENSE, INCLUDING ATTORNEY’S FEES AND OTHER FEES AND COURT AND OTHER COSTS arising from customer’s acts or omissions related to THESE TERMS, except to the extent of Warehouseman Group’s PROPORTIONATE FAULT. THE INDEMNITY CONTAINED IN THIS PARAGRAPH: (a) IS INDEPENDENT OF CUSTOMER’S INSURANCE obligations under These terms and conditions; (B) WILL SURVIVE THE termination OF THEse TERMs & Conditions, AND (C) shall apply in instances where Warehouseman group, customer, and/or third parties are at fault (except to the extent of Warehouseman group’s proportionate fault).
  12. Customer shall maintain the following insurance policies, at Customer’s sole cost and expense, with at least the coverages described below:
      • Comprehensive General Liability Insurance, including contractual liability coverage, and bodily injury and property damage coverage, with limits of no less than $2,000,000.00 per occurrence, or the amount required by law, whichever is higher;
      • Worker’s Compensation Insurance or Occupational Disease Insurance, and Employer’s Liability Insurance with limits of no less than $1,000,000.00, or the amount required by law, whichever is higher, for accidents or occupational disease covering all work related to the Customer’s business; and
      • Commercial Auto Liability Insurance, with a combined single limit of no less than $1,000,000.00 to injuries to any person or for damages to property in any one occurrence.
      • Insurance covering loss or damage for the total value of all of Customer’s goods while in the possession of Warehouseman.
    • Customer’s insurance shall include the following terms, and the Customer shall furnish to Warehouseman Certificates of Insurance evidencing the insurance required by these Terms & Conditions and the following terms:
      • Inclusion of Warehouseman and its Affiliates as additional insured on the aforementioned policies;
      • Waiver of subrogation in favor of Warehouseman Group on the aforementioned policies;
      • The on the aforementioned policies shall be primary and non-contributory to any other coverage in favor of Warehouseman;
      • The policies and insurance certificates shall provide coverage in those territories as may be applicable to the location where the services will be performed; and
      • 30 days prior written notice will be given to Warehouseman in the event of cancellation, suspension, or material change in the policy to which it relates.
    • The insurance requirements contained herein shall in no way limit Customer’s liability or responsibility under these Terms and Conditions, nor shall they be construed to be the ultimate types and amounts of insurance Customer should maintain to adequately insure itself.
    • Failure of Customer to provide a compliant Certificate of Insurance and Warehouseman’s failure to insist upon a compliant Certificate of Insurance shall in no way alter the requirements herein.
  13. Warehouseman’s Lien and Security Interest. To secure Customer’s performance under these Terms & Conditions, Customer grants to Warehouseman a lien and security interest against all of Customer’s non-exempt personal property that is in or on the Warehouse. This is a security agreement for the purposes of the Uniform Commercial Code, and Warehouseman may file a financing statement to perfect the Warehouseman’s security interest under the Uniform Commercial Code. In addition to the charges described herein, Customer shall be liable for any and all expenses Warehouseman incurs to sell or dispose of the goods, including, but not limited to, attorney fees, transportation costs, administrative costs, and expenses necessary for the preservation of the goods. Warehouseman shall have the right to pay another service provider, whether hired by Warehouseman or not, for services provided with relation to transportation, handling, warehousing, or related services, including instances where Warehouseman provides such services, Warehouseman hires a third party to provide the services, or otherwise. Customer consents to such costs being included in Warehouseman’s lien and sale of the goods to satisfy such costs.
  14. Warehouseman’s Access Requirements. Customer shall comply with and cause each of Customer’s employees, contractors, and invitees to comply with and execute the Warehouseman Access Requirements and furnish the executed the Warehouseman Access Requirements to Warehouseman before Customer’s employees, contractors, or invitees access the premises.CUSTOMER’S failure to REQUIRE AND cause each of CUSTOMER’S employees, contractors, or invitees that enter WAREHOUSEMAN GROUP’S property to execute the WAREHOUSEMAN ACCESS REQUIREMENTS shall not constitute a waiver by WAREHOUSEMAN GROUP of the rights and remedies contained in THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS and the WAREHOUSEMAN ACCESS REQUIREMENTS. CUSTOMER SHALL DEFEND AND INDEMNIFY WAREHOUSEMAN GROUP FOR ANY CLAIMS OR DAMAGES INCURRED BY WAREHOUSEMAN GROUP THAT WAREHOUSEMAN GROUP WOULD NOT HAVE OTHERWISE INCURRED HAD THE CUSTOMER FULFILLED THE TERMS IN THIS SECTION.The indemnity obligations under these Terms and Conditions are effective to the maximum extent permitted by law. If a law is applied in a jurisdiction that prohibits or limits the Customer’s ability to indemnify Warehouseman Group, then Customer’s liability and indemnification obligation shall exist to the fullest extent allowed by the law of the relevant jurisdiction.
  15. Notice of Claims. It is a condition precedent to recovery on any claim against Warehouseman that Customer shall present all claims for loss or damage to goods to Warehouseman in writing within 91 days after delivery or the expected delivery date of the goods underlying the claims. Customer agrees that any claims for which notice is not provided to Warehouseman within 91 days are waived.
    • Customer may only maintain an action by Customer or others against Warehouseman for loss or damage to goods if said action is commenced within 2 years after delivery or the expected delivery date of the goods underlying the action.
    • As a condition precedent to making any claim and/or filing any suit, Customer shall provide Warehouseman a reasonable opportunity to inspect the goods which form the basis of Customer’s claim and/or suit.
  16. Customer’s Representations.Customer represents and warrants that Customer has lawful possession of the goods and has the right and authority to tender those goods to Warehouseman. Customer agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Warehouseman Group from all loss, cost, and expense (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) which Warehouseman Group pays or incurs as a result of any dispute or litigation, whether instituted by Warehouseman Group or others, respecting Customer’s right, title or interest in the goods. Such amounts shall be charges in relation to the goods and subject to Warehouseman’s lien.
    • Customer represents and warrants that the information concerning the goods it provides Warehouseman will be accurate, complete, and sufficient to comply with all laws and regulations concerning the storage, handling, and transporting of the goods, and Customer shall indemnify, defend, and hold Warehouseman Group harmless from all loss, cost, penalty and expense (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) which Warehouseman Group pays or incurs as a result of Customer’s failure to comply with this provision.
  17. Warehouse Receipt. Any warehouse receipt issued by Warehouseman in connection with these Terms and Conditions will be non-negotiable. A warehouse receipt, if issued by Warehouseman, may be issued in either physical or electronic form at Warehouseman’s option.
  18. Abandoned Property. The Warehouseman may retain, destroy, or dispose of any property left on the Premises after the termination of these Terms and Conditions by providing 60 days’ written notice to Customer by certified mail at Customer’s last known address.
  19. Force Majeure. Warehouseman shall not be liable for failure to perform any of its obligations during any time in which such performance is prevented by fire, flood, hurricane, storm, weather-related incidents, or other natural disasters, war, embargo, riot, civil disobedience, or the intervention of any government authority, or any other cause outside of the reasonable control of Warehouseman.
  20. Governing Law; Venue. These Terms and Conditions shall be subject to and governed by the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to choice-of-law principles and irrespective of the fact that one or more of the parties may be or may become a resident of a different state. The parties agree that any and all disputes under these Terms and Conditions shall be filed in the appropriate county, state, and federal courts located within Harris County, Texas.
  21. Non-Waiver. The failure or refusal of either party to insist upon the strict performance of any provision of these Terms and Conditions, or to exercise any right in any one or more instances or circumstances shall not be construed as a waiver or relinquishment of such provision or right, nor shall such failure or refusal be deemed a customary practice contrary to such provision or right.
  22. If any provision in these Terms and Conditions is held to be unenforceable the parties intend and request that the provisions be reformed and replaced with a provision as close as the parties’ original intent as permitted by law and that as much of these Terms and Conditions remain in effect as permitted by law.

HALLMARK DISCLAIMER

The term “Shipper” means the person(s) or entity(ies) desiring to have the goods transported, sending the goods, or otherwise liable as a shipper under law. This definition includes the exporter, importer, sender, receiver, owner, consignor, consignee, forwarder, broker, transferor, or transferee of the shipments, or any other agents or representatives of Shipper. It is the responsibility of all such parties to provide notice and copies of these Terms and Conditions to each other. The term “Consignee” shall mean the person or party to whom the freight is to be delivered.

The term “Company” refers to Hallmark Trucking LLC of Harris County, TX, MC 136172.
Company reserves the right to modify, amend, and supplement these Terms and Conditions (also known and referred to as Rules Tariff, Rules Circular, Rules, Tariff, and similar references) from time to time without notice.

Hallmark Trucking LLC performs services by transporting cargo on equipment owned or leased to Hallmark Trucking LLC under MC-136172. When cargo is transported by an unaffiliated motor carrier, broker services are provided by Metrix Logistics Group, LLC under MC-976471 and subject to Metrix Logistics Group, LLC’s Terms & Conditions. Warehousing services are also provided by Metrix Logistics Group, LLC and subject to Metrix Logistics Group, LLC’s Terms & Conditions.

Shipper and its agent’s consent to the use of Hallmark Trucking LLC’s affiliated brokerage entity, Metrix Logistics Group, LLC, to broker loads that Hallmark Trucking LLC does not perform using its own equipment. Shipper and its agents expressly agree that they will not attempt to hold Metrix Logistics Group, LLC liable in the capacity of a motor carrier. Shipper’s insertion of Hallmark Trucking LLC or Metrix Logistics Group, LLC (for a brokered load) as the carrier on a bill of lading or other documents shall be for Shipper’s convenience only and shall not affect the status of the actual motor carrier transporting the property or brokerage entity arranging for transportation.

Shipper and its agents further agree they will not attempt to hold Hallmark Trucking LLC liable in the capacity of a broker, nor to attempt to make any claim against Hallmark Trucking LLC in connection with transportation services performed by any other motor carrier. The carrier actually transporting the freight at issue (“Carrier”) shall be the sole party responsible in the capacity of a motor carrier. Shipper and its agents agree Hallmark Trucking LLC does not engage in warehousing, and Shipper and its agents agree they will not attempt to hold Hallmark Trucking LLC liable for warehousing services provided by Metrix Logistics Group, LLC, if any.

Hallmark Trucking LLC and Metrix Logistics Group, LLC are Texas limited liability companies, each of which (i) is solely responsible for its own debts and obligations, and (ii) is not responsible for the debts and obligations of any other entity unless expressly agreed in writing. Shipper agrees that Hallmark Trucking LLC and Metrix Logistics Group, LLC shall not be liable, and Shipper will not attempt to hold them liable, for the conduct of their affiliates or third parties. Similarly, Shipper agrees that Hallmark Trucking LLC and Metrix Logistics Group, LLC are not engaged in a partnership, joint venture, joint enterprise, or similar venture.

  1. General Terms
    1. Application. Each provision of these terms and conditions shall apply to each transportation agreement entered into between the Company and Company’s customers and Shipper, regardless of the origin or destination, including interstate or intrastate shipments unless expressly waived in a signed, written agreement. The terms and conditions herein shall apply to shipments exempt from economic regulation as well as shipments subject to the jurisdiction of the FMCSA. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE COMPANY’S LIABILITY FOR CARGO LOSS OR DAMAGE EXCEED THE LESSER OF THOSE SET OUT IN THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OR THE MAXIMUM SET FORTH IN ANY THROUGH BILL OF LADING OR OTHERWISE AGREED TO BETWEEN THE SHIPPER AND THE PARTY WHICH RETAINS COMPANY’S SERVICES. If there is any discrepancy or conflict between these terms and conditions and any terms contained in the bill of lading (including those executed by Company’s personnel and contractors), Shipper’s terms and conditions, or any other document, the terms and conditions herein shall control, unless changes have been made by obtaining written approval by an officer of Company prior to Company performing the transportation.
    2. Bills of Lading. The terms and conditions of the Company’s Bill of Lading will apply notwithstanding the use by Shipper of any other bill of lading or shipping document. Drivers are not authorized to bind COMPANY to non-conforming bills of lading and execute bills of lading with alternative terms and conditions as receipts for the shipment only. The Consignee’s receipt and/or signature of the Bill of Lading without notation of damages shall be dispositive evidence that the cargo was delivered in good condition.
      a.Shipments
    3. Compliance with Laws and Regulations. Shipper shall ensure that Company has all the information and documentation necessary to comply with the laws and regulations of any country in, through, or which the shipment will be transported.
    4. Special Permits. When permits are required for the transportation of over-size and/or overweight loads, the Shipper of the freight shall procure and furnish such permits, or shall request, in writing, Company to secure them and costs will be billed to Shipper.
    5. Steamship Line and Third-Party Equipment. Use of steamship line or third-party equipment (chassis, container, flat racks, ISO tanks, etc.) will be subject to the steamship line or third party’s equipment interchange agreement, including allowances for free time, per diem charges, chassis split, maintenance, and repair, and all other charges incurred. The Shipper will be billed for all charges plus an additional administrative charge. Shipper shall pay all valid charges without delay.
    6. Chassis Splits. When the container chassis is not located at the same location as the container to be transported, chassis split charges may be assessed.
    7. Shipper Load and Count. All shipments will be loaded by the consignor and unloaded by Consignee. Where the driver was either not present or was not allowed to observe the loading or unloading, omission of shipper load and count (or “SLC” notation) on the bills of lading shall not result in a presumption of the Company’s liability for shortage or damage.
    8. Packing and Packaging – Shortage. The company will not be responsible for the shortage of shipments that are banded, strapped, netted, shrink-wrapped, or otherwise secured to bins, pallets, platforms, or skids. The Company will only be responsible for the number of bins, pallets, platforms, or skids on such shipments to the extent that such units can be reasonably counted. The Company will not be liable for damaged goods not marked fragile or glass. The Company shall not be liable for shortage or damage to sealed shipments.
    9. Crated or Sealed Shipments. The Company will not be responsible for packing, sealing, or crating a shipment or securing the goods within the crate. The Company will not be liable for damages of any kind caused by improper packing, sealing, or crating of shipments by Shipper or another third-party or improper securement of the goods within a crate by Shipper or another third-party. Shipper shall indemnify, defend, and hold Company harmless against any losses, liabilities, claims, demands, or causes of action whatsoever (including, but not limited to, all costs, expenses, and attorneys’ fees) arising out of or in any way related to the improper packing, sealing or crating of a shipment by Shipper or a third-party or the improper securement of the goods within a crate. This indemnification, Defense, and Hold Harmless obligation shall apply whether due to the sole or concurrent Fault of the shipper or a third party.
    10. Over-dimensional and Overweight Shipments. Shipper shall provide weight and measurement for all shipments. Advance written notification of overweight or over-dimensional shipments is required. If the weight or measurements of the goods as delivered are different from Shipper’s representations, or if pick-up or delivery time or location is changed by Shipper, Company will not be responsible for fines, permit fees, or penalties assessed by any agency. Any fines or expenses resulting from overweight shipments arising from Shipper’s failure to provide accurate weight and measurements, in addition to any permit fees, will be included in the invoice and charges to be paid for the shipment. Additionally, the Company’s rates, charges, and fees are subject to change and will be included in the invoice and charges to be paid to the Company. Shipper shall at all times have sole responsibility to ensure shipments comply with the terms of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (“SOLAS”), as applicable. If Shipper fails to provide advanced written notice of overweight shipment or fails to provide notice that a shipment is overweight, Company reserves the right to breakdown the shipment and transport the shipment in multiple loads; further, Shipper agrees to pay additional charges for breaking down shipments and performing additional carriage consistent with Company’s average rates.
    11. Loading/Unloading. Shipper and Consignee shall be responsible for loading and unloading all shipments at Shipper’s and Consignee’s facilities. Rates do not include loading or unloading by Company personnel.
    12. Attempted Pickup and Delivery. When Company is requested to dispatch a vehicle to a point designated by the Shipper, and the vehicle is furnished but not used, and attempted pickup charge and fuel surcharge will be assessed. If a shipment is rejected in whole or in part by Consignee, Shipper will be responsible for all freight charges as though the shipment had been accepted by Consignee. In addition, the rejected shipment may be returned to the point of origin or other location designated by the Shipper, and the Shipper will be responsible for freight charges for return transportation, in addition to any resulting storage charges or other expenses arising out of such rejection.
    13. Re-consignment or Diversion. Shipments re-consigned or diverted while in transit may be subject to additional charges in accordance with Company’s rates.
    14. Stop-Offs. Stop-off charges may be assessed when Company is required to pick up from multiple origins or deliver to multiple destination locations.
    15. Loss and Damage – Salvage. If goods are rejected, including overage, Company will have the right to sell or dispose of such goods. This also applies to property transported by Company that is damaged or alleged to be damaged and is, as a consequence, not delivered or is rejected or refused upon tender to the owner, Consignee, or person entitled to receive such property. In any event, the salvage value of the cargo shall be deducted from claims for loss or damage to cargo.
    16. Disposition of Overage. The Consignee shall accept overages in fulfillment of its duty to mitigate damages. Overages will be returned to Consignee or Shipper by Company upon request in return for payment of the Company’s applicable freight charges. In the event Shipper, consignor, and Consignee decline to accept overages and mitigate damages, Company will treat any overage as salvage and after notice will sell same in accordance with the bill of lading contract and the terms herein. The Company will not be liable for any difference between the sales price of overage and the destination market value where the Shipper and Consignee decline to mitigate damages.
    17. Hazardous Materials. The Shipper will comply with all U.S. Department of Transportation requirements governing hazardous materials. The Shipper must provide a legible bill of lading and Shipper’s certificate with proper Hazmat information on the Bill of Lading and affix any required placards before the shipment is tendered. Failure to comply with these requirements will relieve the Company of any and all liability for loss or damage directly or indirectly caused to or by the hazardous materials. Shipper shall be liable for all costs and expenses, including but not limited to clean-up, storage, and hourly rates of Company staff, for incidents arising from leakage, release, or exposure from hazardous materials. Shipments of hazardous materials will be subject to an additional charge.
    18. Substituted Service. Company reserves the right to refer shipments to, and Shipper consents to the use of, Company’s affiliated brokerage entity and affiliated motor carrier entity to provide all or part of given movements. The Shipper will not hold the Company liable for the actions of the separate freight brokerage entity nor the actions of any affiliated or third-party motor carrier. In the event of any claim or loss, the Shipper must look solely to the independent motor carrier and its insurance providers. Services provided by Company’s affiliates are subject to their Terms & Conditions, which are available upon request.
    19. Limitation of Liability of Third Party Service. Company will in no event be held liable for any claim, loss, damage, expense, or delay to the goods for any reason whatsoever when such goods are in custody, possession, or control of third parties selected by Company to forward, enter and clear, transport, or render other services with respect to the goods.
    20. Sale of Perishable Goods. Perishable goods or live animals to be exported, imported, or which are cleared through customs for which no instructions of disposition are furnished by Shipper may be sold or otherwise disposed of without notice to Shipper, owner or Consignee of the goods, and payment or tender of the net proceeds of any sale after deduction of charges will be equivalent to delivery. In the event that any shipment is refused or remains unclaimed at the destination or any trans-shipping point in the course of transit or is returned for any reason Shipper must pay Company for all charges and expenses in connection therewith. No provision herein obligates the Company to forward, enter or clear the goods or arrange for their disposal.
    21. Shipper’s Duty to Furnish Information.
      1. On an import, at a reasonable time prior to entry of the goods to U.S. Customs, Shipper shall furnish to Company invoices in the proper form together with other documents necessary or useful in the preparation of the U.S. Customs entry, and such further information as may be sufficient to establish the dutiable value, classification and admissibility of the goods pursuant to U.S. law, or regulation or ruling. If Shipper fails to timely furnish all of such information or documents, as may be required to complete U.S. Customs entry, delays may occur. Where a bond is required by U.S. Customs to be given for the production of any document or the performance of any act, Shipper shall be deemed bound by the terms of the bond notwithstanding the fact that the bond has been executed by Company as Principal, it being understood that Company entered into such undertaking at the request and on behalf of Shipper and Shipper shall INDEMNIFY and DEFEND Company for the consequences of any breach of the terms of the bond.
      2. On an export, at a reasonable time prior to the exportation of the shipment, Shipper shall furnish to Company the commercial invoice in proper form and number, a proper consular declaration, weights, measures, values, and other information in the language of and as may be required by the laws and regulations of the U.S. and the country of destination of the goods.
      3. On an export or import, Company will not in any way be liable for increased duty, penalty, fine, or expense unless caused by the gross negligence or other faults of Company, in which event its liability to Shipper will be limited in accordance with, and as further described in Company’s Terms and Conditions in effect on the date of service. Shipper shall be bound by and warrant the accuracy of all invoices, documents, and information furnished to Company by Shipper or its agent for export, entry or other purposes and shipper agrees to INDEMNIFY and DEFEND Company against any increased duty, penalty, liquidated damage, fine or expense, including attorney’s fees, resulting from any act, inaccuracy or omission or any failure to make a timely presentation, even if not due to any negligence or fault of the shipper.
      4. The following notice is required to be given pursuant to 19 CFR part 111.29(b)(1): If you are the importer of record, payment to the broker will not relieve you of liability for Customs charges (duties, taxes, or other debts owed Customs) in the event the charges are not paid by the broker. Therefore, if you pay by check, Customs charges may be paid with a separate check payable to “U.S. Customs Service,” which shall be delivered to Customs by the broker.

      All customs penalties, storage charges, or related expenses incurred as a result of an action by a governmental agency, or failure by the Shipper, Consignee or consignor to provide proper documentation or to obtain a required license or permit will be borne by Shipper and Shipper shall DEFEND and INDEMNIFY Company for such penalties, storage charges, and related expenses.

  2. Limitation of Liability
    1. Limitation of Liability per Shipment. The company’s rates are based on limited liability for loss or damage to cargo. All shipments are released to a maximum value and maximum liability of $100,000 per shipment. In no event shall liability be greater than the actual value of lost or damaged articles less salvage. Company’s liability for cargo loss or damage will not exceed $100,000 per shipment (“Release Value”) unless Shipper requests an increase in legal liability by a.) Submitting a written request for a higher Release Value, b.) Paying an additional charge based on the increased Release Value, and c.) Obtaining written confirmation of the higher Release Value from an Officer of Company. Drivers are not authorized to agree to higher released value.
    2. Inadvertence Clause. If a Shipper declares or fails to declare a value exceeding $100,000 per truckload, without obtaining written approval from Company, the shipment will not be accepted, but if the shipment is inadvertently accepted, it will be considered as being released to a maximum value of $100,000 per shipment, and the shipment will move subject to such limitation of liability.
    3. No Liability for Special or Consequential Damages. COMPANY WILL not be liable for special, incidental, indirect, or consequential damages (including without limitation, lost profits, or business opportunity, attorney fees, or punitive and exemplary damages) incurred or suffered by the Shipper as a result of the shortage, damage or delay, even if COMPANY is notified in advance of the possibility of such damages occurring. COMPANY WILL NOT BE liable for penalties or CHARGES claimed by the shipper, shipper’s customer, other parties shipper has contracted with, or third parties.
    4. Liability of Company. COMPANY WILL NOT BE LIABLE TO THE OWNER OF PROPERTY FOR LOSS, DAMAGE, OR DELAY CAUSED BY (1) an act or default of the Shipper, owner, or Consignee; (2) any act of any third party motor carrier; (3) any act of any affiliated or unaffiliated freight broker; and (4) freezing or spoiling of any perishable goods or property or for natural shrinkage.
    5. Concealed Damage. COMPANY is not responsible for hidden or concealed damage.
    6. Commodity Limitations. The company does not hold out to transport copper, money, jewelry, manufactured tobacco products, ammunition, objects d’art, currency, documents, items of unusual value, or rare metals.
    7. Reasonable Dispatch. Even though an estimated delivery date may be provided or that specific delivery date and time may be requested, Company is not bound to transport a shipment by a particular schedule or in time for a particular market but is responsible to transport a shipment with reasonable dispatch.
    8. Force Majeure. The company will not be liable for failure to perform any obligation resulting from circumstances beyond its control, including but not limited to any mechanical breakdown, acts of God, riot, war, terrorist act, civil disturbance, fire, explosion, flood, strike, lock-out, labor disturbance, or any other cause outside of the reasonable control of Company.
    9. Liability for Equipment and Cargo after delivery. Shipper shall ensure that any containers, chassis, or other equipment tendered to Shipper, consignor, Consignee or delivery point and remaining at the Shipper’s facility, consignor’s facility, Consignee’s facility, or delivery point after delivery (for unloading or loading) shall be secured and handled in a manner to prevent theft, loss, or other damage. Company will not be responsible for stolen, lost, or damaged goods, containers, chassis, or other equipment after such items have been delivered and are not in the physical possession of Company; Shipper will be fully liable for theft, loss, and damage to all goods, containers, chassis, and other equipments after such items have been delivered. The shipper will reimburse Company for any costs Company pays or incurs with regard to theft, loss, or other damage to goods, containers, chassis, or other equipment occurring after Company delivers the shipment, including, but not limited to property loss or damage and per diem.
    10. No liability for SOLAS. In no event shall Company be liable for fines, penalties, costs, expenses, or other damages resulting from Shipper’s failure to comply with the terms of SOLAS.
    11. Liability for replacement services and other costs. With respect to any damages arising from delayed or defective transportation of the shipment (other than liability for loss or damage to cargo, which is set forth herein) including, but not limited to, the cost of replacement services, Company’s liability shall be limited to Company’s freight charges for the shipment at issue.
    12. Cargo Drop Liability. Shipper shall ensure that any cargo, containers, chassis, or other equipment tendered to Shipper or the delivery point and remaining at the Shipper’s facilities or the delivery point after delivery (for unloading or loading) shall be secured and handled in a manner to prevent theft, loss, or other damage. Company will not be responsible for stolen, lost, or damaged cargo, containers, chassis, or other equipment after such items have been delivered and are not in the physical possession of Company; Shipper will be fully liable for theft, loss, and damage to all cargo, containers, chassis, and other equipments after such items have been delivered. The shipper will reimburse Company for any costs Company pays or incurs with regard to theft, loss, or other damage to cargo, containers, chassis, or other equipment occurring after Company delivers the shipment, including, but not limited to property loss or damage and per diem.
  3. Additional Terms
    1. Cargo Claims. Claims for loss, damage, or delay to cargo shall be filed according to 49 C.F.R. § 370 and the Company’s Bill of Lading. All cargo claims filed with Company are waived if not filed in writing within 9 months from the date of delivery or a reasonable time at which delivery should have been accomplished. Written notice of any patent damage to cargo shall be provided to Company immediately, and not later than 3 days after delivery. Written notice of latent damage shall be provided to Company upon discovery, and, in any event, no later than 15 days after delivery. All cargo claims are waived if a civil suit is not filed within 2 years from the date the Company gives a person written notice that the Company has denied any part of the claim specified in the notice. All other claims must be brought within 2 years from the date the claim accrues. ALL CLAIMS FOR WHICH PROPER AND TIMELY NOTICE IS NOT GIVEN ARE DEEMED AUTOMATICALLY WAIVED.
    2. Disposition of Contested Cargo Claims. Unless the parties agree to voluntary alternative dispute resolution, disputed claims will be subject to 49 U.S.C. §14706 (the Carmack Amendment) subject to any applicable released evaluation. Claimant waives any right to set-off or offset of contested and unliquidated cargo claims against freight charges otherwise due to Company as a precondition of service. Claimants agree to the forfeiture of any contested claim asserted by it as a set-off after notice and demand for freight charges.
    3. No Responsibility for Governmental Requirements. It is Shipper’s responsibility to know and comply with all the classification, valuation, marking, and other Custom’s requirements, laws, regulations, and ruling enforced by the U.S. and any country having jurisdiction over a shipment, the laws, and regulations of any applicable governmental agency, including but not limited to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and all other requirements, laws, and regulations of any applicable country or governmental agency. Company will not be responsible for action taken or fines, liquidated damages, or penalties assessed by any governmental agency against the shipment because of the failure of Shipper to comply with any such laws, rulings, requirements, or regulations of any country or government agency or with a notification issued to Shipper by any such agency.
    4. Advancing Charges. Company may advance for collection from Shipper, owner, or Consignee any lawful charges that may be associated with the transportation of the freight. Charges paid by Company will be billed to the Shipper or Consignee at actual cost plus a handling fee.
    5. Payment of Charges and Collection. Payment will be due within 30 days of the invoice. If charges are to be paid by a third party other than the Shipper or Consignee and such third party fails to pay the charges within 30 days of invoice, the Shipper and Consignee shall be liable for the charges. Nonrecourse provisions, prepaid designations, collect designations, and related terms on bills of lading shall not be given effect; Company shall be entitled, at all times, to seek payment from the Shipper, Consignee, and customer. Amounts not received within 30 days of the invoice date are subject to 1.5% interest per month or the maximum amount allowed by law, whichever is less, beginning on the 31st day after payment was due. In the event Company finds it necessary to retain the services of legal counsel to collect any outstanding indebtedness, the Shipper or Consignee shall pay all attorney fees, collection service fees, court filing fees, and related expenses to collect such outstanding debt.
      Company or Company’s affiliate will invoice for Company’s services. As a convenience to Shipper, invoices may be processed by Company’s affiliated entity and such administrative support in issuing invoices will not alter Company’s role or its affiliate’s role in connection with a particular shipment, as the act of invoicing is a purely administrative function performed independent of providing services and assuming legal duties.
    6. Payment without offset. Shipper, consignor, and/or Consignee must pay all freight charges when due without offset for any cause. All claims for loss or damage shall be governed by these terms and conditions and neither Shipper, consignor nor Consignee shall deprive Company of proper cargo insurance adjustment by unilateral deduction of claims from payment of freight charges due. In the event that Shipper or its agents “short pay” freight charges or deduct charges from freight bills without Company’s authorization to do so in writing, prior to the deduction, Shipper and its agents waive their right to any contested cargo claim that is set-off against freight charges.
    7. Third-Party Billing & Freight Charge Liability. The company does not employ property brokers or other intermediaries as its agents for the collection of freight charges. A shipment in which charges are to be paid by a party other than the Shipper, consignor, or Consignee will be accepted provided recourse to the Shipper, consignor, and consignee is preserved, regardless of any other representation on the Bill of Lading or other shipping documents (including, but not limited to, Section 7 and/or prepaid designations). The Shipper, consignor, and Consignee guarantee to pay the charges if the third party fails to do so in the time allotted under the applicable credit regulations.
    8. Mexican Shipments. The Company assumes no liability for cargo loss, shortage, or damage to shipments, while in the United Mexican States (“Mexico”). Shippers are advised that liability for cargo loss in Mexico differs from the U.S. law (49 U.S.C. 14706), and the special arrangements with the Mexican carrier participating in any trans-border movement are not the Company’s responsibility. Clear bills of lading showing safe and damage-free delivery between the U.S./Mexican borders at the pickup or delivery points in the U.S. will be evidence of the Company’s proper discharge of its cargo responsibility. In the event that it is determined that the Company is liable for loss, damage, or delay occurring in Mexico, Company’s maximum liability will be the rate affixed under the laws of Mexico for domestic shipments within that country.
    9. Lien on Goods. The Shipper hereby grants Company a lien on the goods tendered to Company by Shipper or consignor (including proceeds of such goods tendered to the Company), which shall survive delivery, to secure payment of all charges owed by Shipper to Company, including, but not limited to, freight, demurrage, detention, damages, loss, charges, expenses, collection costs, and any other sums (including costs, customs fees, attorney fees, and other fees for recovery of the sums) chargeable to Company or Shipper in connection with such goods or the transportation of such goods, regardless of whether the charges relate to goods that are presently in the possession of Company or goods that are not present in the possession of Company, including both prior and subsequent shipments. The company shall have the right to sell the goods by public auction or private sale in order to enforce the lien, upon giving the notice required by the Texas UCC, then in effect at the time. If on sale of the goods, the proceeds are insufficient to cover the amount owed, Company shall be entitled to recover the balance from Shipper. Shipper agrees that any sale by Company shall be commercially reasonable, and Shipper waives all claims that a sale of goods is not commercially reasonable. Shipper further agrees to execute any other document necessary for Company to perfect its lien.
    10. Venue and Jurisdiction. This agreement shall be construed to have been entered in Harris County, Texas, and performable in Harris County, Texas. All parties consent to the jurisdiction of Texas and to the venue in Harris County, Texas. It is expressly acknowledged and agreed that any suit related to Company’s services or these terms and conditions shall be filed in the appropriate state or federal court in Harris County, Texas.
    11. Entire Agreement. These terms and conditions and the Company’s Bill of Lading constitute the entire contract between Company and Shipper and only an officer of Company has authority to alter, modify or waive any provision herein, excepting that the rate stated may be modified by Company to conform to the services Company provides.
    12. Waiver. To the extent that terms and conditions herein are inconsistent with the Carmack Amendment, 49 U.S.C. 14706 or Part (b), Subtitle IV, of Title 49 U.S.C. (ICC Termination Act of 1995), the parties expressly waive such rights and remedies that they may have under such laws.