C.H. Robinson Advocates for Uniformity in Freight Laws Ahead of Supreme Court Hearing

The case centers around a critical question: Should freight brokers, like C.H. Robinson, be held liable under state laws for accidents involving federally licensed motor carriers? C.H. Robinson, which facilitates approximately 37 million shipments annually for a diverse clientele of 83,000 customers and 450,000 contract carriers, emphasizes the need for consistent federal regulations to ensure that goods move efficiently and safely across the nation.

Dorothy Capers, Chief Legal Officer of C.H. Robinson, articulated the company's stance, stating, “For nearly a century, federal law has provided one clear set of rules for how freight moves across the country. That clarity matters for safety and for the economy.” She underscored that the company's brief to the Court seeks to reaffirm the established regulatory framework to maintain accountability where it belongs and ensure that goods continue to be delivered reliably.

C.H. Robinson's brief outlines the historical context of federal law governing motor carrier services and its relevance to freight brokers. The company argues that allowing state courts to impose liability on brokers for their selection of licensed motor carriers undermines the uniformity that has characterized the industry for nearly 100 years. In recent years, some courts have permitted plaintiffs to challenge these decisions, which has sparked concerns about fragmented regulations that could disrupt the logistics sector.

The company highlights that Congress has long recognized the necessity of uniform federal standards for the motor carrier industry, asserting that brokers do not operate vehicles or select drivers. Therefore, it argues that they should not be held responsible for accidents caused by the drivers of the motor carriers they engage.

C.H. Robinson warns that allowing individual state court systems to establish their own standards for federally licensed motor carriers would create a disjointed regulatory environment. According to Capers, this would lead to conflicting rules for the same shipments, escalating costs and uncertainty within supply chains that are crucial for the economy.

“Permitting 50 different state court systems and precedents to impose their own standards on the selection of federally licensed motor carriers would fragment a system built for consistency,” Capers stated. “A unified federal framework not only reduces confusion—it helps ensure that safety oversight remains focused and effective where it matters most."

C.H. Robinson is set to present its oral argument before the Supreme Court on March 4, 2026. The company remains committed to advocating for a transportation system characterized by safety and reliability, supported by clear national standards that benefit not only the logistics industry but also the broader populace reliant on the movement of goods.

As this significant legal battle unfolds, the implications of the Supreme Court's decision could resonate throughout the logistics sector, potentially reshaping the regulatory landscape for freight brokers and motor carriers alike.