What are the FENEX terms and conditions?

Anyone doing business internationally knows that transport always involves certain risks. Goods can be damaged, delayed, or even lost. That’s why clear agreements between freight forwarders, carriers, and shippers are essential.

In the Netherlands, these agreements are often based on the FENEX terms and conditions. In this blog, we explain exactly what these terms entail, who they apply to, and why they are so important in transport and logistics practice. We’ll also take a closer look at how they differ from other regulations, share practical examples, and explain what this means for EASY Road customers.

The background of the FENEX terms and conditions

The FENEX terms and conditions were drawn up by the Dutch Association for Forwarding and Logistics. This industry organization represents freight forwarders and logistics service providers and developed the terms to clearly define the rights and obligations of all parties involved.

They include agreements on liability, payment, insurance, and dispute resolution. By applying these terms, a solid foundation for cooperation is created. Both the forwarder and the client know in advance where they stand legally, which significantly reduces the risk of conflicts.

Who do the FENEX terms and conditions apply to?

The terms and conditions are primarily intended for freight forwarders and logistics service providers. These are companies that organize transport but do not necessarily own trucks or ships themselves. Shippers — the companies that arrange for their goods to be transported — also fall under these terms once they engage a forwarder.

Since EASY Road Transport does not employ its own drivers but operates as a freight forwarder, the FENEX terms and conditions are directly relevant to both us and our customers. They ensure clear agreements with both carriers and clients, providing certainty regarding liability and responsibilities.

The importance of clear agreements

Transport may seem straightforward, but a lot can go wrong along the way. Think of a shipment being damaged during loading, a delivery delayed due to traffic jams or strikes, or confusion about who is responsible for customs formalities.

The FENEX terms and conditions provide clarity in such situations. They define who is liable, the maximum amount of compensation for damages, and the deadlines for submitting claims. They also specify which court or authority has jurisdiction to handle disputes.

For freight forwarders, this is important because they often depend on the carriers they hire. For shippers, it’s essential because it clarifies their rights and the limitations that apply in cases of damage or delay. This prevents endless discussions and allows both parties to reach a solution quickly.

FENEX terms and conditions compared to other regulations

In the transport industry, there are several sets of agreements and conventions, and it’s important to understand the differences between them. The international CMR Convention governs the liability of carriers in international road transport. The General Transport Conditions (AVC) mainly apply to domestic transport within the Netherlands. The FENEX terms and conditions differ in that they are specifically designed for freight forwarders.

The difference is clear: the CMR Convention and the AVC focus on the carrier who actually performs the transport, while the FENEX terms and conditions apply to the freight forwarder who organizes it. In addition, there are also FENEX storage conditions, which apply when goods are placed in storage or transshipment. This way, there is an appropriate set of agreements for every link in the logistics chain.

How do the terms and conditions work in practice?

An example makes this more concrete. Imagine a freight forwarder arranging transport from Rotterdam to Birmingham, and along the way, a pallet is damaged due to improper loading. The shipper files a damage claim. Under the FENEX terms and conditions, the forwarder’s liability is limited, and compensation is calculated based on the weight of the damaged goods. This eliminates any debate about the amount of the claim, as the rules have been agreed upon in advance.

Another example concerns delays. A shipment arrives later than agreed, and the client holds the freight forwarder liable for consequential losses — for instance, production downtime. The FENEX terms and conditions generally exclude liability for consequential damages, meaning the forwarder is not responsible for indirect losses. This provides clarity for both parties and prevents a single incident from escalating into a prolonged dispute.

What does this mean for shippers?

For shippers, it’s important to understand that claims must be submitted within the specified time limits. Those who wait too long lose their right to compensation. In addition, liability is limited and often does not cover the full value of the shipment. For this reason, many companies choose to take out additional cargo insurance. This way, they combine the legal certainty of the FENEX terms and conditions with broader financial protection.

Liability and claims

The core of the FENEX terms and conditions revolves around liability. In most cases, a freight forwarder’s liability is limited — often to a fixed amount per kilogram or per shipment. Consequential damages, such as production downtime or lost sales, are usually excluded from coverage.

There is also a statute of limitations, typically nine months, within which a claim must be filed. For businesses, this is crucial information, as it forms the foundation of their risk management strategy.

Customs, permits, and extras: we take care of it all

Transporting goods to the UK with a flatbed trailer? Then you’ll be dealing not only with additional paperwork but sometimes also with special permits for exceptional transport. EASY Road Transport takes care of all the necessary documentation and guides you through complex shipments, helping you avoid unexpected delays at the border or en route.

FENEX terms and conditions at EASY Road Transport

At EASY Road Transport, we organize transport daily between the Netherlands, England, Belgium, and the Ruhr area. Since we operate as a freight forwarder and do not employ our own drivers, clear agreements with both clients and carriers are essential. That’s why we adhere to the FENEX terms and conditions. This gives our customers the assurance that all agreements are legally sound and that risks are clearly defined.

However, our approach goes beyond the legal side. We promise fast, personal, and transparent transport. This means you always know where your shipment is, you have a dedicated contact person, and agreements are truly honored. With the FENEX terms and conditions as our foundation — and our personal service on top — we provide hassle-free transport that is well-organized both practically and legally.

At EASY Road Transport, we combine these terms and conditions with our own core values. This way, you benefit from the legal certainty of FENEX as well as the speed, transparency, and personal approach that define us. It ensures you always know exactly where you stand — no matter how complex your transport may be.

Want to know more about the possibilities for your transport? Get in touch with one of our specialists today, or fill in the rate calculator. We’ll be happy to think along with you!