ADSP stands for “Allgemeine Deutsche Spediteurbedingungen”. It is a set of rules that defines the legal conditions and regulations for the transport of goods by freight forwarders in Germany. The ADSP were developed by the German Freight Forwarding and Logistics Association (DSLV) and are considered standard terms and conditions for freight forwarders.
The ADSP regulate the rights and obligations of forwarders and their customers (shippers and consignees) in connection with the transportation of goods. They specify liability, insurance, payment terms and other important aspects of the transportation contract. The terms and conditions in the ADSP are binding on both parties unless otherwise agreed.
In general, the ADSPs specify that the carrier is required to transport the goods in accordance with the shipper’s instructions and to provide adequate packaging, securing and marking. The shipper must provide the carrier with all necessary information and documents.
The forwarder’s liability for loss of or damage to the goods is regulated in the ADSP. In most cases, the carrier is liable up to a certain limit, unless the loss or damage was caused by gross negligence or intent. The sender can optionally agree on extended liability, for which additional charges apply.
It is important to note that the ADSP apply to the transportation of goods that are transported within Germany. For international freight traffic, other sets of rules usually apply, such as the German Freight Forwarders’ Standard Terms and Conditions for International Freight Traffic (ADSp) or international regulations such as the Incoterms.