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NSAB 2015 explained – the forwarder's terms in plain words

Engage a forwarder in the Nordics and you'll almost always meet the abbreviation NSAB 2015. It's the industry's standard terms – and they decide who's responsible for what if something goes wrong. Here we explain them in plain language.

What is NSAB 2015?

NSAB stands for the General Conditions of the Nordic Association of Freight Forwarders. It's a standard agreement governing the relationship between forwarder and client in Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland. The 2015 version is the one in force today.

The provisions are an industry standard giving both parties clear, predictable rules – rather than negotiating every assignment from scratch.

What do the provisions govern?

NSAB 2015 covers, among other things:

  • The forwarder's liability – and limitations – for damage, loss or delay
  • Claim and limitation deadlines: how quickly you must report a fault
  • Lien on the goods for the forwarder's claims
  • Insurance and how liability relates to the transport

Forwarder or carrier – different liability

An important point is that liability differs depending on the forwarder's role. When the forwarder arranges and organises the transport, one liability applies; when the forwarder undertakes the transport itself, another applies, often in line with international transport rules.

Liability is limited under the provisions. The exact amounts and deadlines are set out in NSAB 2015 in full – just ask us and we'll clarify what applies to your assignment.

Why it's good for you as a customer

NSAB 2015 gives you reassurance: you know in advance which rules apply, and they're the same with reputable forwarders across the Nordics. That makes it easier to compare and to know what you can claim if something doesn't go as it should.

We work under NSAB 2015. You'll find the reference in our terms.

Common questions

Does NSAB 2015 apply automatically?+

The provisions apply when agreed, and they're the industry standard among Nordic forwarders. We apply NSAB 2015 where relevant – it's stated in our terms.

Is the forwarder's liability limited?+

Yes, liability is limited under the provisions and depends on the forwarder's role in the assignment. We'll help you understand exactly what applies to your shipment.