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Get Owner Operator Lease Agreement Form in PDF

The Owner Operator Lease Agreement is a formal document that outlines the relationship between a carrier and an owner operator in the transportation industry. This agreement specifies the terms and conditions under which the owner operator will transport goods for the carrier. It ensures that both parties understand their rights and responsibilities, promoting a smooth working relationship.

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What to Know About This Form

  1. What is an Owner Operator Lease Agreement?

    An Owner Operator Lease Agreement is a contract between a carrier and an owner operator. This agreement outlines the terms under which the owner operator will transport goods for the carrier. It includes responsibilities, compensation, and legal obligations that both parties must adhere to during the term of the agreement.

  2. What are the key responsibilities of the Owner Operator?

    The Owner Operator is responsible for securing all necessary permits and licenses required for transportation. They must also comply with federal, state, and local laws. This includes providing proof of compliance to the carrier when requested. Additionally, the Owner Operator must ensure the safe transportation of goods and assume liability for any loss or damage during transit.

  3. How does compensation work under this agreement?

    Compensation is based on the rates and charges specified in the attached rate schedule. The carrier agrees to pay the owner operator within sixty days of receiving an invoice. This ensures timely payment for the services rendered under the terms of the agreement.

  4. What happens if the Owner Operator wants to assign the contract?

    The Owner Operator cannot assign the contract to another party without obtaining written consent from the carrier. This provision protects the carrier's interests and ensures that they maintain control over who is performing the transportation services.

  5. Is insurance required for the Owner Operator?

    Yes, the Owner Operator must carry various types of insurance, including cargo and personal injury coverage. This insurance must meet the minimum requirements set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the states in which the owner operator operates. Proof of insurance must be provided to the carrier as part of the agreement.

  6. What are the confidentiality obligations?

    The Owner Operator is required to keep the terms of the agreement and any sensitive information about the carrier's business confidential. This includes details about suppliers, products, and customers. Disclosure of such information to third parties is prohibited without prior written consent from the carrier.

  7. What should be done if there are disputes regarding the agreement?

    Any disputes arising from the agreement should be addressed according to the laws of the state specified in the contract. Both parties are encouraged to communicate openly to resolve issues amicably. If necessary, legal action may be pursued in accordance with state law.

  8. How long does the Owner Operator Lease Agreement last?

    The duration of the agreement is specified within the contract. It remains in effect until the agreed-upon term ends or until terminated by either party in accordance with the terms outlined in the agreement.

  9. Can the terms of the agreement be modified?

    Yes, modifications to the agreement can be made, but they must be documented in writing and signed by both parties. This ensures that any changes are officially recognized and agreed upon.

  10. What should the Owner Operator do if they receive hazardous materials?

    When transporting hazardous materials, the Owner Operator must comply with all applicable laws and regulations. They are responsible for ensuring that the materials are transported safely and that proper documentation is provided to the carrier upon receipt. Failure to comply can result in significant liabilities.

Misconceptions

Here are nine common misconceptions about the Owner Operator Lease Agreement form:

  1. Owner Operators are employees of the Carrier. Many people think that Owner Operators are employees. In reality, they are independent contractors. This distinction is important for liability and tax purposes.
  2. The Owner Operator can modify the agreement without consent. Some believe that changes can be made freely. However, any modification must be in writing and signed by both parties.
  3. All liability falls on the Carrier. This is not true. The Owner Operator is responsible for many liabilities, especially those related to the transportation of goods.
  4. Insurance coverage is optional. Many assume that insurance is not necessary. In fact, the Owner Operator must carry specific types of insurance as outlined in the agreement.
  5. Owner Operators can transport any type of cargo without restrictions. This is a misconception. The agreement specifies the types of cargo that can be transported, and compliance with regulations is required.
  6. The Owner Operator can assign the contract to anyone. This is false. The Owner Operator cannot assign the contract without written consent from the Carrier.
  7. Confidentiality does not matter. Some may think that sharing details about the agreement is harmless. However, the Owner Operator must keep all terms confidential unless they have written consent from the Carrier.
  8. Payment is immediate upon service completion. Many expect instant payment. In reality, the Carrier has up to sixty days to pay after receiving an invoice.
  9. All disputes will be handled in federal court. This is misleading. The agreement specifies that state law applies, and disputes may be handled according to the laws of the relevant state.

Form Breakdown

Fact Name Details
Parties Involved This agreement is between the Carrier and the Owner Operator, who is an independent contractor responsible for transporting goods.
General Provisions The Owner Operator must secure all necessary permits and comply with federal, state, and local laws, including those related to hazardous materials.
Insurance Requirements The Owner Operator is required to maintain specific insurance coverage, including cargo and personal injury insurance, in compliance with federal and state regulations.
Governing Law This agreement is governed by the laws of the state of ____________________.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: One common mistake is failing to fill out all required fields. Leaving out essential details, such as the date or names of the parties involved, can lead to confusion and potential legal issues down the line.

  2. Misunderstanding Terms: Many people overlook the importance of fully understanding the terms outlined in the agreement. It’s crucial to read and comprehend each provision, as misunderstandings can result in unintended obligations or liabilities.

  3. Neglecting Signatures: Forgetting to sign the document is a frequent error. Both the Owner Operator and Carrier must sign the agreement for it to be legally binding. Without signatures, the agreement holds no weight.

  4. Ignoring Compliance Requirements: Some individuals fail to acknowledge the necessary permits, licenses, and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. This oversight can lead to penalties and jeopardize the ability to operate legally.

  5. Overlooking Insurance Provisions: Lastly, not paying attention to the insurance requirements can be detrimental. Owner Operators must ensure they meet the specified insurance coverage to protect themselves and the Carrier from potential losses.

Preview - Owner Operator Lease Agreement Form

OWNER OPERATOR LEASE AGREEMENT

THIS agreement, entered into this ____day of ______________20___ between

______________________, (Hereinafter designated as “Carrier”), and

______________________, (Hereinafter designated as “Owner Operator”),

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, Owner Operator is engaged in the transportation of general freights of all kinds (FAK) by motor vehicle as a contract Carrier and desires to transport goods for Carrier; and WHEREAS, to facilitate such transportation and for the convenience in handling such transaction, the parties have agreed to the terms and conditions under which transportation shall be made, as hereinafter set forth.

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual promises and conditions herein contained it is hereby agreed as follows:

(1) GENERAL PROVISIONS:

(a)Owner Operator, in its operations hereunder, shall secure all permits, licenses and approvals necessary for the accomplishment of the work to be done hereunder and shall comply fully with all applicable laws, rules, orders and regulation of all governments and agencies thereof, whether federal, state or local, and shall furnish Carrier with satisfactory evidence thereof whenever requested to do so. Among other things, Owner Operator shall provide to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration certificate showing Owner Operator holds contract authority from such commission covering the commodities and transportation routes to which this agreement relates, and Owner Operator shall give immediate notice to Carrier of any cancellation or modification of such authority. When transporting hazardous wastes, substances to or materials pursuant this agreement, Owner Operator shall comply with all applicable federal, state and local hazardous wastes, substances or materials laws and regulations and shall furnish Carrier with satisfactory evidence thereof whenever requested to do so.

(b)The Owner Operator hereby agrees to deliver for the Carrier for transportation, not less than the following amount: one shipment of freight of all kinds (FAK) during a period of

____________________. The Owner Operator further agrees, subject to availability and loading tendered for transportation by Carrier.

(c)All such cargo shall be transported hereunder in accordance with this agreement and the provisions of Carrier’s tariff’s or service contracts applicable to such cargo. Cargo shall include any containers in which goods are packed when received by Owner Operator hereunder.

(d)This agreement shall not be modified or altered unless in writing, signed by both parties to this agreement.

(e)This contract shall terminate all previous contracts between the parties hereto relating to the transportation Freight all kinds (FAK) and shall remain in full force and effect for the term of this agreement.

(f)It is to be clearly understood and it is the intention of the parties hereto that Owner Operator shall employ all persons operating trucks hereunder, that such persons shall be and remain the employees of the Owner Operator, that the Owner Operator shall be an independent contractor of the Carrier and that nothing herein contained shall be construed to be inconsistent with that relation or status.

(g)It is further to be clearly understood that where the Owner Operator engages any

subcontractor for any portion of the work hereunder, such engagement will not alter the relationship of the Owner Operator to the Carrier as an independent contractor and shall not establish any relationship or obligation between Carrier and any subcontractor. Owner Operator will continue to be solely responsible for compliance with or performance for any subcontractors actually doing such work and will otherwise defend, indemnify and save harmless the Carrier, its agents and servants from any such claims, liabilities, penalties and fines (whether criminal or civil), judgments outlays and expenses (including attorney’s fees).

(h)Owner Operator shall defend, indemnify and save harmless the Carrier, its agents and servants from any and all liabilities, penalties and fines (whether criminal or civil), judgments, outlays and expenses (including attorney’s fees) resulting from Owner Operator’s failure or the failure of Owner Operator’s agents, employees, subcontractors or representatives to comply with any applicable laws and regulations, whether federal, state or local, or property arising out of the performance of this agreement caused by the acts, failure to act or negligence of Owner Operator, subcontractors, its agent, employees, or representatives.

(i)Owner Operator will assume all liability for and will otherwise defend, indemnify and save harmless the Carrier, its agents or servants from any and all liabilities, penalties and fines (whether criminal or civil). Judgments, outlays and expenses (including attorney’s fees) resulting from any release or discharge of hazardous wastes, substances or materials that occurs during transportation and Owner Operator will assume all responsibility and liability for cleanup of any release or discharge of hazardous wastes, substances or materials that occurs during transportation and will otherwise defend indemnify and save harmless the Shipper, its agents and servants from any and all liabilities, penalties and fines (whether criminal or civil), judgments, outlays and expenses (including attorney fees) resulting from the cleanup of any such release or discharge.

(j)Owner Operator will defend, indemnify and save harmless the Carrier, its agents and servants from any and all liabilities, penalties and fines (whether criminal or civil in nature), judgments, outlays and expenses (including attorney’s fees) resulting from the Owner Operator’s failure or the failure of Carrier’s agents, employees, subcontractors or representatives to perform any of the terms, conditions, promises or covenants contained in this contract.

(k)Carrier shall have full responsibility for all payments, benefits, and rights of whatsoever nature to or on behalf of any of its employees and to ensure that its subcontractor shall have the same responsibility.

(l)It is further agreed by the parties hereto that Owner Operator is not to display the name of Carrier upon or about any of the Owner Operator’s vehicles, without Carrier’s written consent.

(m)Any limitation on or exemption from liability in any tariff, receipt, bill of lading, or other document issued by or on behalf of Owner Operator shall have no legal effect and shall not otherwise apply with respect to shipments tendered by or on behalf of Carrier unless specifically agreed in writing by the Owner Operator. Any limitations on or exemptions from liability contained in a Owner Operator’s tariff, receipt, bill of lading, or other document issued in conjunction with a specific shipment moving under this Contract shall have no legal effect and shall not otherwise be applicable to such shipments.

2.RECEIPTS OF GOODS:

(a)Owner Operator agrees, upon receipt from Carrier of such quantities of Carrier’s goods as may be tendered from time to time under this agreement by Carrier or by a third party on behalf of Carrier to give Carrier a written receipt thereof, which shall be prima facie evidence of receipt of such goods in good order and condition unless otherwise noted upon the face of such receipt; and, in the case of transportation of hazardous wastes, substances or materials such written receipt shall be prima facie evidence of receipt of such wastes, substances or materials in a condition and manner which complies with all applicable laws and regulations, whether federal, state or local. In the event that Owner Operator elects to use a tariff, bill of lading, manifest or other form of freight receipt or contract, any terms, conditions and provisions of such bill of lading, manifest or other form shall be subject and subordinate to the terms, conditions and provisions of this Agreement, and in the event of a conflict between the terms, conditions and provisions of such tariff, bill of lading, manifest or other form and this Agreement, the terms, conditions and provisions of this Agreement shall govern.

(b)Owner Operator agrees to take signed receipts upon forms satisfactory to Carrier from all persons to whom deliveries shall be made, which receipts shall be retained by Owner Operator for at least two (2) years and shall be available for inspection and use of Shipper.

3. CARE AND CUSTODY OF MERCHANDISE:

(a)Owner Operator hereby assume the liability of an insurer of the prompt and safe transportation of all goods entrusted to its care, and shall be responsible to Carrier for all loss or damage of whatever kind and nature and howsoever, caused to any and all goods entrusted to Owner Operator hereunder occurring, while same remains in the care, custody or control of Owner Operator or to any other persons to whom the Owner Operator may have entrusted said goods and before said goods are delivered as herein provided or returned to Carrier.

(b)On occasion, Owner Operator will be requested to transport reefer cargo refrigerated containers. On all occasions, refrigerated containers must be transported with an attached generator set (nose mounted or under-slung) unless specifically advised by Carrier in writing that a generator set is not required. It is the Carrier’s responsibility to ensure a generator set is attached and running properly at the assigned temperature at the time of interchange.

4. INSURANCE:

(a)Owner Operator agrees to be a motor Carrier member in good standing in the Uniform Intermodal Interchange Agreement (UIIA). Owner Operator further agrees to comply with the insurance requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the states through which the Owner Operator operates. Owner Operator’s insurance coverage shall, at a minimum, comply with the minimum requirements as stated in the UIIA.

(b)The Owner Operator agrees to carry cargo, personal injury, death, equipment and general insurance and will promptly reimburse Carrier for the value of any goods (including containers) lost or destroyed during the period of Owner Operator’s responsibility under clause (3) (a). All such insurance shall be as additional insured.

(c)The Owner Operator agrees to provide the UIIA with appropriate certification and a copy of each policy of insurance and renewals thereof or other satisfactory evidence that Owner Operator has obtained insurance in compliance with the requirements and terms of this agreement.

(d)The Owner Operator will arrange with its broker and/or insurance Carrier(s) that notice of coverage and limits will be sent directly to the UIIA, as well and cancellation notices and

amendments to coverage(s).

5. ASSIGNMENTS:

This contract cannot be assigned by Owner Operator without the written consent of Carrier.

6. COMPENSATION, COMMODITIES, TERRITORY:

(a)Acceptable rates and charges, rules and regulations, the commodities to be transported, and the points from and to which they shall be transported, are to be furnished the Carrier, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and other regulatory bodies as may be required, as set forth in the rate schedule attached hereto and made a part hereof. Carrier agrees to pay Owner Operator as full compensation for services to be performed by Carrier under said rules and regulations the rates and charges set forth in the rate schedule, within sixty (60) days of invoice date.

(b)This agreement is to become effective upon signature by Carrier and Owner Operator.

7. CONFIDENTIALITY:

Owner Operator shall treat as confidential, and not to disclose to third parties, the terms of this agreement or any information concerning the Carrier’s business including information regarding suppliers, products and customers without in each instance obtaining Carrier’s written consent in advance.

8. NOTICES:

All notices given pursuant to this agreement shall be given in writing by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, and addressed as directed by the parties from time to time.

CARRIER: ______________________________________________________________

9. APPLICABLE LAW:

To the extent state law applies, this agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the state of ____________________.

SIGNATURES

OWNER OPERATOR

_______________________________

NAME

CARRIER

_______________________________

NAME