DRC Home > Radioactive Material Transportation > Types of Carriers
Radioactive Material Transportation: Types of Carriers
Common
Common and contract carriers provide a service to others. They carry other peoples' materials. Common carriers have published rates for hauling material. Common and contract carriers are not licensed by the NRC. The responsibility for safety rests with the shipper, who must meet the requirements of DOT and NRC (e.g., Federal Express and UPS are common carriers).
Contract
Contract carriers negotiate a specific contract with the shipper. The contract may require extra-regulatory requirements (e.g., TriStates is a contract carrier).
Private
Private carriers own the radioactive material which they carry. The transport of material is accomplished in direct support of the radioactive material user's business. These carriers are licensed by the NRC or an Agreement State.
Examples of private carriers who transport their sources from one job site to another are:
- Industrial Radiographers
- Portable Gauge Users
- Well Loggers
