Logistics Law and Freight Forwarding in Spain

At Vectoris Legal we provide specialist legal advice for logistics operators, freight forwarders, customs agents and warehouse operators in Spain. Logistics and freight forwarding companies operate at the intersection of transport law, customs law, commercial law and insurance law — a complex multidisciplinary environment where legal issues must be managed with precision.

Freight Forwarder and Logistics Operator Contracts

The legal regime of freight forwarders and logistics operators (3PL/4PL) in Spain is complex: their liability varies depending on whether they act as agent, intermediary or actual carrier, and the applicable law differs for each mode of transport. At Vectoris Legal we draft and review standard contracts with clients, service agreements with subcontractors, general terms and conditions and specific logistics service agreements — ensuring that liability limitations are validly incorporated and enforceable.

Freight Forwarder Liability

The freight forwarder's liability for errors and omissions — including customs errors, misdeclarations, incorrect routing and failure to follow instructions — is a frequent source of disputes with clients. We advise freight forwarders on their liability exposure and defend them against claims from clients and their insurers.

Warehouse Operator and Depositary Liability

Warehousing operations generate a specific liability regime for the warehouse operator as depositary of the goods. Damage, loss and theft of goods in storage are frequent sources of claims. We advise on the correct structuring of warehouse contracts and general conditions, and represent warehouse operators and cargo interests in warehousing disputes.

Unpaid Invoices and Freight Recovery

Recovery of unpaid logistics services invoices — including right of retention over goods in custody — is one of the most common legal issues for logistics operators. We handle debt recovery through extrajudicial demand, the Road Transport Arbitration Board and court proceedings. For more information, see our page on freight and debt recovery.

Customs Compliance for Logistics Operators

Logistics operators acting as customs representatives face specific compliance obligations — including AEO status requirements, guarantee obligations and documentary responsibilities. We advise on customs compliance programmes and defend against AEAT customs sanctioning proceedings.