Transportation and Logistics
Keeping transport companies in motion, steadying the load.
From supply chain irregularities to damage claims and industry consolidation, companies operating in the transportation industry face a dynamic business environment. The Spencer Fane Transportation team knows firsthand the complexities of the industry and brings deep experience working with transport companies to the legal and business advice it provides to clients.
Overview
Understanding the business of shipping goods
The Spencer Fane Transportation and Logistics team knows firsthand the complexities of the industry. Our experienced team of attorneys has a proven track record in both advising and defending a variety of claims and issues specific to the transportation and logistics industry.
We represent motor carriers, owner / operators, shippers, freight forwarders, and brokers, both directly and through insurers, across the nation. We operate as a full-service team, offering general guidance; contract, policy, and training review; and drafting, investigation, and defense of claims ranging from death and catastrophic injury to property damage and cargo losses, as well as handling customized claims and risk management services tailored to the specific needs of the industry. We know the industry and dive deep into each client’s business structure, operations, and personnel, so we can respond quickly and efficiently.
The Spencer Fane team has extensive experience and a proven track record of successfully defending transportation cases involving a variety of claims, including negligent hiring, supervision, retention, and training. When litigation becomes necessary, we help clients navigate difficult cases to minimize financial exposure and reputational damage. We know when it is right to fight, and when interests are better served through efficient, reasonable, and negotiated resolution of disputes.
With years of industry experience and knowledge, the Spencer Fane team delivers a robust, comprehensive experience. We offer a comprehensive suite of legal services tailored to the unique needs of the industry, including:
- Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating transportation contracts and logistics agreements, including independent contractor, owner / operator, motor carrier, shipper, broker, carrier, and lease purchase arrangements.
- Advising on regulatory compliance at federal, state, and international levels, including licensing, safety, and environmental regulations.
- Representing clients in litigation and dispute resolution, covering cargo claims, personal injury defense, property damage, breach of contract, and catastrophic loss cases.
- Handling employment and labor matters, such as wrongful termination, worker classification, collective bargaining, non-compete agreements, and OSHA or DOT compliance.
- Managing risk, insurance coverage, and claims, including defense in regulatory and administrative agencies such as the EEOC.
- Conducting internal investigations, accident response, and crisis management.
- Advising on mergers, acquisitions, and business growth strategies, as well as bankruptcy assistance within the transportation and logistics sector.
- Providing counsel on customs, international trade, and cross-border transactions, including compliance with import / export laws and international arbitration.
- Supporting clients in technology, data security, and intellectual property matters relevant to logistics operations, such as software deployment, e-commerce platforms, and patent / trademark protection.
- Assisting with real estate, land use, and infrastructure issues related to transportation facilities, terminals, and warehousing.
- Offering strategic advice on supply chain management, operational efficiency, and long-term corporate planning for transportation and logistics providers.
We have extensive experience handling a broad range of statutory and regulatory issues that arise in connection with federal and state administrative agencies. Our work encompasses claims and investigations under various statutes and regulations, as well as compliance with agency rules and procedures. We advise clients on steps to improve compliance and minimize the likelihood of future claims.
Our broad-based approach ensures clients receive end-to-end legal support across all modes of transportation, throughout the entire supply chain, and across the nation.
