What does a carrier's safety rating indicate?

A carrier's safety rating is an important metric used within the transportation industry to evaluate how well a carrier adheres to safety regulations and standards. This rating is based on various factors, including the carrier’s history of accidents, compliance with safety rules, inspection results, and overall performance concerning safety management.

When a carrier has a high safety rating, it typically indicates that they have a strong track record of operating safely and effectively, which can help build trust among clients and regulatory bodies. This rating is often used by shippers and brokers to assess potential risks associated with using a particular carrier.

The other options do not accurately reflect what the safety rating signifies. Although some of the factors mentioned, like cargo capacity, price competitiveness, and customer service, are important aspects of a carrier's overall business operation, they do not directly relate to safety performance or compliance status, which is the primary focus of a safety rating.