The logistics industry sits at the center of the modern supply chain—coordinating transportation, warehousing, distribution, technology, and data to ensure goods move efficiently from origin to destination. From third-party logistics providers (3PLs) and freight forwarders to distribution center operators and integrated supply chain managers, logistics companies operate in a fast-paced environment shaped by contract risk, regulatory compliance, technology integration, and global trade dynamics.
At Flaster Greenberg, our Transportation, Logistics, and Supply Chain Practice Group advises logistics providers, shippers, brokers, warehouse operators, and investors on the legal and commercial issues critical to operational success. Our attorneys deliver strategic, practical counsel aligned with the realities of today’s supply chain ecosystem.
Regulatory Framework and Compliance
Logistics providers operate within a multi-layered regulatory structure that may involve oversight from agencies such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the Surface Transportation Board (STB), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, depending on the scope of services provided.
We counsel clients on:
- Broker and freight forwarder authority and compliance
- Transportation intermediary regulations
- Cargo security and customs compliance
- Hazardous materials coordination
- Multimodal and intermodal regulatory requirements
- Federal and state licensing obligations
- Tariff compliance and mitigation strategies
Our team helps logistics companies build compliance frameworks that reduce risk while supporting operational agility.
Contracting and Risk Allocation
At the core of every logistics operation is a network of contracts—allocating responsibility among carriers, shippers, warehouses, and technology providers. We represent clients in drafting and negotiating:
- Master logistics services agreements (MLSAs)
- Supply, services, and fulfillment agreements
- Drafting standard terms and conditions
- Broker-carrier agreements
- Third Party Logistics
- Shipper agreements and rate confirmations
- Warehouse and distribution agreements
- Indemnification, limitation of liability, and insurance provisions
- Technology and SaaS agreements supporting logistics platforms
We focus on clear, enforceable risk allocation that reflects operational realities and protects margins.
Warehousing, Distribution, and Fulfillment
As e-commerce and omnichannel distribution models expand, logistics providers face increased operational and legal complexity. We advise on:
- Warehouse leasing and development
- Fulfillment and last-mile arrangements
- Inventory management disputes
- Loss and damage claims, as well as mitigation strategies
Our goal is to support scalable infrastructure while minimizing legal exposure.
Dispute and, Claim Resolution
Supply chain disruptions, cargo losses, and service failures can quickly escalate into high-stakes disputes. We provide strategic counsel on:
- Cargo loss and damage claims
- Service level agreement (SLA) disputes
- Regulatory investigations
- Insurance coverage matters
- Contract termination and restructuring
- Tariffs
We work closely with operations teams and insurers to resolve disputes efficiently and protect long-term commercial relationships.
Transactions, Growth, and Strategic Expansion
The logistics industry continues to consolidate and evolve through acquisitions, private equity investment, and strategic partnerships. We represent clients in:
- Asset and equity acquisitions
- Mergers involving 3PLs and freight forwarders
- Joint ventures and strategic alliances
- Corporate restructuring and succession planning
- Financing transactions and capital raises
Our transactional experience ensures deals are structured to address regulatory, operational, and risk-management considerations unique to logistics businesses.
Technology, Data, and Supply Chain Innovation
Technology lies at the core of modern logistics operations. AI-powered platforms now drive real-time shipment visibility, demand forecasting, automated carrier selection, and supply chain “control tower” management.
As logistics providers become increasingly data-centric, artificial intelligence is reshaping both operational capability and legal risk. Our attorneys assist clients with
- Data security and cybersecurity compliance
- Technology integration agreements
- Platform liability and risk management
- ESG and sustainability initiatives within supply chains
- Emerging regulatory developments affecting digital logistics models
Our Transportation Law attorneys combine regulatory knowledge, commercial insight, and practical problem-solving to help logistics companies thrive in an increasingly complex supply chain environment.
For more information about our Logistics Industry capabilities within the Transportation, Logistics, and Supply Chain Practice Group, please contact Practice Group Leads Chris Merrick or Eric Palombo.
