Free Owner Operator Lease Agreement PDF Form

Free Owner Operator Lease Agreement PDF Form

The Owner Operator Lease Agreement is a vital document that outlines the relationship between a carrier and an owner operator in the transportation industry. This agreement establishes the terms under which the owner operator will transport goods on behalf of the carrier, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Understanding this form is essential for both parties to protect their rights and responsibilities throughout the transportation process.

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The Owner Operator Lease Agreement is a vital document in the transportation industry, establishing a formal relationship between a Carrier and an Owner Operator. This agreement outlines the responsibilities and expectations of both parties, ensuring a smooth and efficient operation. It includes essential provisions such as general operational guidelines, liability considerations, and insurance requirements. The Owner Operator must secure necessary permits and comply with all applicable laws, which is crucial for maintaining safety and legality in transportation. The agreement specifies the types of cargo to be transported and the terms under which this will occur, including the requirement for written receipts upon delivery. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of maintaining confidentiality regarding the Carrier's business information. By detailing compensation structures and the conditions for subcontracting, the agreement helps to clarify the financial and operational relationship between the parties involved. Ultimately, the Owner Operator Lease Agreement serves as a foundational tool to foster trust and accountability, ensuring that both the Carrier and Owner Operator can work together effectively while adhering to industry regulations.

Owner Operator Lease Agreement Sample

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

Documents used along the form

The Owner Operator Lease Agreement is a crucial document in the transportation industry, establishing the relationship between a carrier and an owner-operator. However, it is often accompanied by several other forms and documents that help clarify responsibilities, ensure compliance, and protect the interests of both parties. Here’s a brief overview of some common documents used alongside the Owner Operator Lease Agreement.

  • Bill of Lading: This document serves as a receipt for goods being transported and outlines the terms of the shipment. It includes details such as the type of cargo, destination, and the parties involved in the transaction.
  • Freight Receipt: Similar to a bill of lading, this document confirms the receipt of goods by the owner-operator from the carrier. It acts as proof of delivery and includes important information about the cargo.
  • Insurance Certificates: These documents provide evidence that the owner-operator has the necessary insurance coverage as required by law and the terms of the lease agreement. They protect against potential liabilities arising from accidents or damages during transportation.
  • Rate Confirmation Sheet: This document outlines the agreed-upon rates for transportation services. It includes details about the shipment, such as weight, dimensions, and any special handling requirements.
  • Permits and Licenses: Owner-operators must secure various permits and licenses to operate legally. These documents demonstrate compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, ensuring that the owner-operator is authorized to transport specific types of cargo.
  • Subcontractor Agreements: If the owner-operator engages subcontractors for any part of the transportation process, these agreements outline the responsibilities and obligations of the subcontractors, maintaining the independent contractor relationship.
  • Hazardous Materials Documentation: When transporting hazardous materials, specific documentation is required to ensure compliance with safety regulations. This includes manifests and safety data sheets that detail the nature of the materials being transported.
  • Driver Qualification Files: These files contain important information about the qualifications of drivers operating under the lease agreement. They include records of training, certifications, and driving history, ensuring that all drivers meet regulatory standards.
  • ATV Bill of Sale: This form is crucial for documenting the sale and transfer of ownership of all-terrain vehicles in Arizona. It ensures that all parties have a clear record of the transaction, accessible at azformsonline.com/atv-bill-of-sale.
  • Confidentiality Agreement: This document ensures that both parties keep sensitive information about each other's businesses confidential. It protects trade secrets and proprietary information shared during the course of the lease agreement.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in the transportation process, helping to ensure smooth operations and compliance with regulations. Understanding their purpose can lead to a more effective partnership between the carrier and the owner-operator.

Key takeaways

1. Understand the Agreement's Purpose: The Owner Operator Lease Agreement outlines the terms between the Carrier and the Owner Operator for transporting goods. It is essential to read and comprehend the entire document before signing.

2. Compliance with Regulations: The Owner Operator must secure all necessary permits and comply with federal, state, and local laws. This includes providing proof of contract authority and adhering to regulations regarding hazardous materials.

3. Liability and Indemnification: The Owner Operator assumes responsibility for all goods during transportation. They must defend and indemnify the Carrier against any claims or liabilities arising from their operations, including those related to hazardous materials.

4. Insurance Requirements: The Owner Operator is required to maintain adequate insurance coverage, including cargo and personal injury insurance. Proof of insurance must be provided to the Carrier and relevant authorities.

5. Confidentiality Obligations: The Owner Operator must keep the terms of the agreement and any business information related to the Carrier confidential. Disclosures to third parties require prior written consent from the Carrier.

6. Written Modifications Only: Any changes to the agreement must be made in writing and signed by both parties. Verbal agreements or modifications are not recognized and will not be enforced.

Form Overview

Fact Name Details
Parties Involved The agreement is between the Carrier and the Owner Operator, who is responsible for transporting goods.
Compliance Requirements Owner Operator must secure necessary permits and comply with federal, state, and local laws, including those related to hazardous materials.
Indemnification Owner Operator is required to indemnify Carrier against any liabilities arising from non-compliance with laws or damages during transportation.
Insurance Obligations Owner Operator must maintain appropriate insurance coverage as mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the UIIA.
Governing Law The agreement is governed by the laws of the state specified in the contract, ensuring local legal compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Owner Operator Lease Agreement?

An Owner Operator Lease Agreement is a contract between a Carrier and an Owner Operator. It outlines the terms under which the Owner Operator will transport goods for the Carrier. This agreement includes details about responsibilities, compensation, and compliance with laws and regulations.

What are the key responsibilities of the Owner Operator?

The Owner Operator has several important responsibilities, including:

  1. Securing all necessary permits, licenses, and approvals for transportation.
  2. Transporting goods in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
  3. Providing written receipts for goods received and delivered.
  4. Maintaining insurance coverage as required by law.
  5. Indemnifying the Carrier against any liabilities arising from their operations.

How is compensation determined in the agreement?

Compensation for the Owner Operator is based on the rates and charges outlined in a rate schedule attached to the agreement. The Carrier agrees to pay the Owner Operator within sixty days of receiving an invoice for services rendered.

Can the Owner Operator assign the contract to someone else?

No, the Owner Operator cannot assign the contract to another party without obtaining written consent from the Carrier. This ensures that the Carrier maintains control over who is responsible for transporting their goods.

What happens if the Owner Operator fails to comply with regulations?

If the Owner Operator fails to comply with applicable laws and regulations, they will be responsible for any resulting liabilities, penalties, or fines. The Owner Operator must also indemnify the Carrier against any claims that arise from such failures.

How long does the agreement last?

The Owner Operator Lease Agreement remains in effect for the term specified within the document. It also terminates any previous contracts between the parties regarding the transportation of goods.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Owner Operator Lease Agreement

  • Owner Operators are employees of the Carrier. This is incorrect. The Owner Operator is classified as an independent contractor, which means they operate their own business and are responsible for their own employees.
  • All terms can be verbally agreed upon. In fact, any modifications to the agreement must be documented in writing and signed by both parties to be valid.
  • The Carrier is responsible for all liabilities. This is a misconception. The Owner Operator assumes significant liability, including for loss or damage to goods during transportation.
  • Insurance coverage is optional. This is not true. The Owner Operator must comply with specific insurance requirements as mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the Uniform Intermodal Interchange Agreement.
  • Subcontracting is allowed without restrictions. While Owner Operators can engage subcontractors, this does not change their status as independent contractors, and they remain responsible for compliance and liabilities.
  • Owner Operators can display the Carrier’s name freely. This is misleading. Owner Operators must obtain written consent from the Carrier before displaying their name on vehicles.
  • There are no penalties for non-compliance with laws. This is incorrect. Owner Operators are liable for any penalties or fines resulting from their failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations.
  • Compensation is automatically paid. Compensation is not automatic. The Carrier agrees to pay the Owner Operator within a specified timeframe after receiving an invoice.