ORDER:

(1) GRANTING IN PART AND DENYING IN PART DEFENDANT UPS-SUPPLY CHAIN SOLUTIONS, INC.'S MOTION FOR PARTIAL SUMMARY JUDGMENT;

(2) DENYING PLAINTIFF ROHR, INC.'S MOTION FOR PARTIAL SUMMARY JUDGMENT;

(3) DENYING DEFENDANT KNIGHT TRANSPORTATION, INC.'S RENEWED MOTION FOR PARTIAL SUMMARY JUDGMENT

GONZALO P. CURIEL, District Judge.

This action arises out of two international shipments of cargo between Italy and Southern California. In both instances, after arriving at port unharmed, the cargo sustained damage while en route to a final inland destination. Plaintiff Rohr, Inc. ("Rohr") and Defendant UPS-Supply Chain Solutions, Inc. ("UPS-SCS") have filed motions for partial summary judgment addressing the following issues: (1) whether the Carmack Amendment to the Interstate Commerce Act imposes liability on UPS-SCS for damage to the cargo; if so, (2) whether the liability of UPS-SCS is contractually limited; and (3) whether the limitations on liability, if any, are valid and enforceable. Rohr also moves for partial summary judgment as to the liability of Defendant Knight Transportation, Inc. ("Knight"). Knight has filed a renewed motion for partial summary judgment, arguing that the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act limits its liability for damages to cargo incurred during the first shipment. For the reasons set forth below, the Court GRANTS IN PART and DENIES IN PART UPS-SCS's motion, DENIES Knight's motion, and DENIES Rohr's motion in substantial part.

PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND

Rohr initiated this action against UPS-SCS, Knight, and CAL Modal Freight Systems, Inc. ("CAL Modal") on March 21, 2011. See Doc. No. 1. Rohr's original complaint alleges two breach of contract claims against UPS-SCS, brought pursuant to the Carmack Amendment to the Interstate Commerce Act, 49 U.S.C. § 14706 ("Carmack"); a Carmack breach of contract claim against Knight; and five separate claims against CAL Modal, including breach of contract under Carmack, conversion, trespass to chattel, negligence, and negligence per se. Id. ¶¶ 31-76.

Subsequent to service of the original complaint, UPS-SCS filed cross-claims against Knight and CAL Modal for indemnification, equitable partial indemnification, and contribution. See Doc. No. 11. Knight also filed cross-claims against UPS-SCS for equitable indemnity and apportionment. See Doc. No. 7.

Rohr served a summons and the original complaint on CAL Modal on April 7, 2011. CAL Modal's response to the complaint was due on April 28, 2011. See Doc. No. 5. UPS-SCS served CAL Modal with the cross-claims on June 8, 2011. CAL Modal's response to the cross-claims was due on June 29, 2011. See Doc. No. 18. CAL Modal failed to file an answer or otherwise respond to either Rohr or UPS-SCS's allegations, and the Clerk of Court entered default against CAL Modal on all claims and cross-claims. See Doc. Nos. 29, 31.

On March 13, 2012, Knight filed a motion for partial summary judgment on the issue of its limited liability for damages incurred by the cargo it transported. See Doc. No. 45. The Court held a hearing on June 4, 2012 and denied the motion on the record.1 See Doc. No. 60.

On April 18, 2012, the Court granted Rohr leave to file a First Amended Complaint, adding six claims against UPS-SCS for negligence, gross negligence, and negligence per se. See Doc. No. 50. Soon thereafter, the Court issued an order granting Rohr and UPS-SCS leave to delay moving for entry of default judgment against CAL Modal until a determination is made as to the amount of damages owed to Rohr, if any, and by whom. See Doc. No. 57.

Discovery closed on May 18, 2012. See Amended Scheduling Order ¶ 4, Doc. No. 44. Rohr and UPS-SCS timely filed motions for partial summary judgment on June 15, 2012. Id. ¶ 5 (setting a June 15, 2012 deadline for filing dispositive motions); Doc. Nos. 61, 62. Knight filed a self-styled "renewed" motion for partial summary judgment on July 31, 2012. See Doc. No. 64.

FACTUAL BACKGROUND2

Rohr is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Goodrich Corporation and is headquartered in Chula Vista, California.3 See Rohr's Memo. ISO MPSJ, Doc. No. 62-1 at 3. Rohr manufactures aerospace equipment, such as nacelle systems for commercial and military aircraft.4 UPS-SCS is a subsidiary of United Parcel Services. Rohr and UPS-SCS entered into two separate contractual agreements that are relevant to this dispute. Both agreements were in effect at the time of the events in question.

The Subject Agreements Between Rohr and UPS-SCS

On May 9, 2007, UPS-SCS and Goodrich, on behalf of its divisions, subsidiaries, and affiliates, including Rohr, entered into a Master Services Agreement ("MSA"), effective at the time of the events in question. The MSA provides that its terms apply to services rendered by UPS-SCS to Goodrich in accordance with five Exhibits or Statements of Work attached to the MSA, including International Air Freight Service (Ex. A), Small Package Transportation Service (Ex. B), Trade Direct Service (Ex. C), Less Than Truckload Service (Ex. D), and Importer Security Filing Services (Ex. E).

According to the terms of paragraph 11D of the MSA, UPS-SCS's maximum liability for claims by Goodrich for loss or damage to cargo arising from UPS-SCS providing "freight forwarding or motor broker Services, including arranging for inland or air transportation, [is] $50 per shipment . . ."5 The MSA also provides that UPS-SCS's maximum liability for loss or damage to cargo "arising from air, ground or ocean transportation" is $0.50 per pound, unless set forth otherwise "in the bills of lading, airway bills or other transportation documents issued in conjunction with the Services."6

A Customs Brokerage Services Agreement ("CBSA") also exists between UPS-SCS and Goodrich, by which UPS-SCS has agreed to act as a customs broker for Goodrich, assisting in the importation and exportation of cargo.7 According to the terms of the CBSA, in certain instances UPS-SCS will act on behalf of Goodrich, its divisions, subsidiaries, and affiliates, including Rohr, in arranging inland transportation of imported cargo.8 In furtherance thereof, the CBSA provides that UPS-SCS "shall prepare, and submit to carrier, inland bills of lading or pick-up delivery orders for prompt removal of merchandise from piers of cargo holding areas." Pursuant to the CBSA, UPS-SCS is not liable for loss or damage to cargo when the cargo is "in the possession, custody, or control of third parties selected by [UPS-SCS]" for transportation. Similar to the MSA, the CBSA limits UPS-SCS's liability for loss or damages to the lesser of $50 per shipment or the fees charged for UPS-SCS's services.

In conjunction with the CBSA, Goodrich provided UPS-SCS with a Customs Power of Attorney and Designation of Export Forwarding Agent ("Customs POA"). Pursuant to the terms of the Customs POA, Goodrich authorizes UPS-SCS and "its officers, employees, and specifically authorized agents to act for and on its behalf ... full power and authority to do anything whatever requisite and necessary to be done in the premises as fully as said grantor could do if present and acting..."9 The Customs POA incorporates the limitation of liability set forth in the CBSA.

The First Shipment

On October 15, 2009, Vela Poe, Global Logistics Manager for Rohr, contacted Kathy Nicely, a Program Manager with UPS-SCS, via email, requesting a quote for the shipment of 787 GE Tooling equipment from Italy to Riverside, California. See Dalen Decl'n, Ex. 9 (email string referred to herein). Nicely forwarded Poe's email to several individuals employed by UPS-SCS (Italy) in Milan, Italy. Silvana Catalano, with the Italy Pricing Analyst Group at UPS-SCS (Italy), emailed Kathy on October 22, 2009 with a quote for the shipment of the cargo from the shipper/exporter's factory in Venegono Superiore, Italy to Los Angeles. The quote was broken down into several constituent parts, including: loading and trucking cargo from Venegono to La Spezia, Italy; ocean freight from La Spezia to Los Angeles; export customs clearance; and related fees. Rohr accepted the quote, with customs entry services to be performed separately by UPS-SCS's Customs Team.

UPS Europe SA, a non-vessel operating common carrier ("NVOCC"), filed the tariff for ocean transportation of the shipment. UPS Europe SA arranged the transportation of the cargo from the factory in Italy to the Port of Long Beach and issued sea waybill no. 7141001703 ("Bill 1703") to cover that leg of the journey.10 Bill 1703 designated Venegono Superiore as the "Place of Receipt" and Long Beach, California as the "Place of Delivery." The cargo was described as consisting of three containers, including two standard 40' containers and one 40' flat rack, the latter for transporting two crates containing a bonding and trimming tool.11 Bill 1703 has a designated box on its face for declaring a value for cargo in excess of UPS-SCS's liability limitations. This box was left blank.

Prior to the cargo being released at the port, UPS-SCS cleared the shipment through U.S. Customs. UPS-SCS issued a Delivery Instruction to Knight Transportation, permitting Knight to pick up the cargo at the port terminal. The Delivery Instruction identified the three containers, including the two crates being transported on the 40' flat rack.

On December 3, 2009, Jose Martinez, a driver for Knight, arrived at the port and located the cargo on the 40' flat rack situated on a standard container chassis. Martinez did not measure the height of the cargo as it sat on the chassis and flat rack to determine if it was within the legal limit to transport on a public highway in California. Martinez did not know the maximum allowable height. During the inland transportation from the port to Riverside, California, Martinez attempted to travel under a bridge posted for clearance of 14'9". The cargo measured more than 15' above the roadway. As a result, the cargo struck the overpass and was damaged.

The Second Shipment

Rohr requested a second quote from UPS-SCS for the shipment of two crates containing bonding tools, identical to those included in the first shipment but slightly taller. UPS Europe SA issued sea waybill no. 7141002550 ("Bill 2550") to cover transportation of the cargo from Italy to the Port of Long Beach. Similar to Bill 1703, Bill 2550 has a designated box on its face for declaring a value for cargo in excess of UPS-SCS's liability limitations. This box was left blank.

Prior to the cargo being released at the port, UPS-SCS cleared the shipment through U.S. Customs. UPS Ocean Freight Services endeavored to appoint a local trucker to transport the cargo inland. To avoid a repeat of the accident with the first shipment, Rohr requested that the appointed company have a "low boy" or similar trailer which would allow the cargo to sit lower during transit than on a standard chassis. The inland transportation job was offered to CAL Modal. UPS-SCS issued a Delivery Instruction to CAL Modal which indicated "* * * SPECIAL EQUIPMENT NEEDED* * * FRT IS ON A 40' FLAT RACK." When CAL Modal received the Delivery Instruction, CAL Modal advised UPS-SCS that it did not have the special equipment needed and the arrangement was cancelled.

UPS-SCS appointed Look Transportation in place of CAL Modal. However, CAL Modal dispatched a driver to pick up the cargo at the port. The CAL Modal driver arrived at the port before the Look driver and exited the port with the cargo on a standard chassis. Because the cargo was in excess of the maximum allowable height limitation in California, the cargo struck a bridge during inland transit and was damaged.

Each damaged shipment weighed 31,967 pounds. Rohr presented a claim for the damaged cargo to its cargo insurance company and received payment for each of the two shipments.12

SUMMARY JUDGMENT STANDARD

Pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 56, a party is entitled to summary judgment "if the pleadings, depositions, answers to interrogatories, and admissions on file, together with the affidavits, if any, show that there is no genuine issue as to any material fact and that the moving party is entitled to a judgment as a matter of law." Hubbard v. 7-Eleven, 433 F.Supp.2d 1134, 1139 (S.D.Cal.2006), citing former Fed.R.Civ.P. 56(c)(2). "The moving party bears the initial burden to demonstrate the absence of any genuine issue of material fact." Horphag Research Ltd. v. Garcia, 475 F.3d 1029, 1035 (9th Cir. 2007) (citation omitted). "Once the moving party meets its initial burden, . . . the burden shifts to the nonmoving party to set forth, by affidavit or as otherwise provided in Rule 56, specific facts showing that there is a genuine issue for trial." Anderson v. Liberty Lobby, Inc., 477 U.S. 242, 248, 106 S.Ct. 2505, 91 L.Ed.2d 202 (1986) (internal quotation marks and citations omitted).

A mere scintilla of evidence is not sufficient "to defeat a properly supported motion for summary judgment; instead, the nonmoving party must introduce some `significant probative evidence tending to support the complaint.'" Fazio v. City & County of San Francisco, 125 F.3d 1328, 1331 (9th Cir.1997), quoting Anderson, 477 U.S. at 249, 252, 106 S.Ct. 2505. Thus, in opposing a summary judgment motion, it is not enough to simply show that there is some metaphysical doubt as to the material facts. Matsushita Elec. Indus. Co. v. Zenith Radio Corp., 475 U.S. 574, 586, 106 S.Ct. 1348, 89 L.Ed.2d 538 (1986) (citations omitted). However, when assessing the record to determine whether there is a "genuine issue for trial," the court must "view the evidence in the light most favorable to the nonmoving party, drawing all reasonable inferences in his favor." Horphag, 475 F.3d at 1035 (citation omitted). On summary judgment, the Court may not make credibility determinations; nor may it weigh conflicting evidence. See Anderson, 477 U.S. at 255, 106 S.Ct. 2505. Thus, as framed by the Supreme Court, the ultimate question on a summary judgment motion is whether the evidence "presents a sufficient disagreement to require submission to a jury or whether it is so one-sided that one party must prevail as a matter of law." Id. at 251-52, 106 S.Ct. 2505.

THE CARMACK AMENDMENT

In 1906, Congress enacted the Carmack Amendment to the Interstate Commerce Act ("Carmack"), 49 U.S.C. § 14706, with the purpose of "reliev[ing] shippers of the burden of searching out a particular negligent carrier from among the numerous carriers handling an interstate shipment of goods." Reider v. Thompson, 339 U.S. 113, 119, 70 S.Ct. 499, 94 L.Ed. 698 (1950). Carmack "subjects common carriers and freight forwarders transporting cargo in interstate commerce to absolute liability for actual loss or injury to property." Ins. Co. of N. Am. v. NNR Aircargo Serv. (USA), Inc., 201 F.3d 1111, 1115 (9th Cir.2000), citing 49 U.S.C. § 14706(a). The statute serves as a shipper's exclusive remedy for damaged property and preempts common law causes of action against such "carriers" and "freight forwarders." Hughes Aircraft Co. v. N. Am. Van Lines, Inc., 970 F.2d 609, 613 (9th Cir.1992). Carmack does not apply to "brokers," defined under 49 U.S.C. § 13102(2) as "a person, other than a motor carrier . . . that as a principal or agent sells, offers for sale, negotiates for, or holds itself out by solicitation, advertisement, or otherwise as selling, providing, or arranging for, transportation by motor carrier for compensation." Id. at 1068-69.

UPS-SCS'S MOTION FOR PARTIAL SUMMARY JUDGMENT

UPS-SCS moves for partial summary judgment against Rohr, arguing that its liability for damages to cargo during the subject shipments, if any, is contractually limited to either $50.00 per shipment or $0.50 per pound. UPS-SCS directs the Court to pertinent provisions in both the MSA and CBSA. Both contracts contain limitations of liability, as discussed above. UPS-SCS contends that in each instance, the limitation provisions were freely negotiated with Rohr and are valid under both Carmack and federal common law.

Rohr argues that neither the MSA nor the CBSA cover the subject shipments.13 According to Rohr, the five services to be performed by UPS-SCS under the terms of the MSA do not include ocean transportation. As such, the MSA's liability limitation is inapplicable. Rohr further asserts that the limitation on UPS-SCS's liability set forth in the CBSA is irrelevant because UPS-SCS was not acting as a customs broker. Rohr argues that UPS-SCS acted as a freight forwarder and/or motor carrier when arranging the two shipments of cargo, and therefore Carmack applies here.14 Rohr contends that under Carmack the liability limitations in the MSA and CBSA are not valid.

Master Services Agreement

Paragraph 11D of the MSA limits UPS-SCS's liability to Rohr for loss or damage to goods to a maximum of $50 per shipment, if UPS-SCS provides freight forwarding or motor broker services, including "arranging for inland or air transportation." See Lindsay Decl'n, Ex. 1. If UPS-SCS provides air, ground, or ocean transportation services, liability is limited according to the terms and conditions set forth in the issued bill of lading, airway bill, or "other transportation document." Id. If a bill of lading or other transportation document issued for ground transportation services does not include any liability limit, the MSA limits UPS-SCS's liability to $0.50 per pound. Id.

The terms and conditions of the MSA do not limit UPS-SCS's potential liability to Rohr in this case, however, unless a threshold condition is met: with respect to the subject shipments, UPS-SCS must have performed one or more of the services set forth in the five Exhibits to the MSA.15 UPS-SCS's position on this issue is a bit amorphous. In its Statement of Undisputed Facts, UPS-SCS states:

See Doc. No. 61 at 6, ¶10 (emphasis added). Despite this apparent admission that the services related to the subject shipments fall outside the parameters of the Exhibits to the MSA, UPS-SCS maintains that those services are covered by the MSA because the services relate to ocean imports. In turn, the terms set forth in Exhibit E, Importer Security Filing ("ISF") services, are applicable to ocean imports.16 ISF services are only needed for goods being imported into the United States via ocean transportation.17 Thus, UPS-SCS argues that Exhibit E and the MSA clearly contemplate the provision of services related to ocean imports, so that the liability limitation of the MSA applies to the subject shipments.

Rohr responds that none of the Exhibits to the MSA cover the services provided by UPS-SCS in relation to the two shipments of cargo. Rohr points out that while Exhibit E applies to ISF services for the importation of goods into the United States by ocean, it does not cover the actual transportation of such goods.

The Court agrees with Rohr that the services provided by UPS-SCS in relation to the subject shipments are not described in any of the Exhibits to the MSA. And there is no evidence in the record that UPS-SCS provided ISF services to Rohr in connection with either shipment. The price quotes from UPS-SCS, accepted by Rohr, do not include ISF services or related fees. Appendix A to Exhibit E contains a schedule of such fees. There is no documentation in the record demonstrating that Rohr paid any of these fees to UPS-SCS for the subject shipments.

Exhibit E contains its own limitation of liability in paragraph 4.3, such that "[i]n connection with all services performed by the Company [UPS-SCS], the Company's liability shall be limited to $50.00 per importer security filing or transaction, or the amount of fees paid to the Company for the importer security filing or transaction, whichever is more." In order for the MSA to apply to the subject shipments, UPS-SCS had to provide services set forth in one or more of the Exhibits. If UPS-SCS had provided any ISF services per Exhibit E to Rohr for the subject shipments, the terms of Exhibit E would have controlled UPS-SCS's liability. The Exhibit E liability clause conflicts with paragraph 11D of the MSA, and by its own terms, Exhibit E controls in the event of a conflict. Yet UPS-SCS does not argue that its liability in this case should be limited to $50 per importer security filing or transaction, or the related amount of fees; UPS-SCS steadfastly urges that its liability, if any, is limited to $50 per shipment, or $0.50 per pound. UPS-SCS's reliance on paragraph 11D is reconcilable with the express terms of Exhibit E only if no ISF services were performed, or in the alternative, if any loss or damage to the goods resulted from other services. In either event, Exhibit E would be inapplicable. However, any services outside the parameters of Exhibit E would have to be covered by one of the other Exhibits in order for the MSA (and paragraph 11D) to apply. It is undisputed that the services provided to Rohr with respect to the two shipments are not covered by any of the other Exhibits.

Finally, the Court notes that Exhibit E was entered into and went into effect on October 15, 2009, the same day that Rohr initially contacted UPS-SCS for a price quote for the first shipment. The ensuing week-long chain of email communications does not indicate that either party contemplated UPS-SCS providing ISF services for Rohr in connection with the shipment. Indeed, the ISF regulations, although implemented on January 26, 2009, were subject to a delayed enforcement period of twelve months. See 19 C.F.R. § 149.2 ("ISF Importers must comply with the requirements of this section on and after January 26, 2010."). The delayed enforcement period likely explains in part why UPS-SCS did not enter into an ISF services agreement with Rohr until October 2009, 10 months after the regulations were implemented, and why neither quote included any ISF service fees.

In sum, the Court finds that the MSA does not limit UPS-SCS's liability, if any, with respect to the subject shipments. Accordingly, the Court DENIES IN PART UPS-SCS's motion for partial summary judgment.

Customs Brokerage Services Agreement

UPS-SCS argues that the CBSA applies to limit its liability in this case because it acted solely as a customs broker for the subject shipments. Rohr acknowledges that UPS-SCS arranged for the cargo in both shipments to clear customs upon arrival in the United States, but asserts that in relation to the inland transportation of the cargo, UPS-SCS acted beyond the limited capacity of a customs broker, as a freight forwarder or motor carrier. As such, Rohr argues that UPS-SCS's liability for damage to the cargo is not limited by the terms of the CBSA.

Paragraph 10 of the CBSA (Indemnification and Limitation of Liability) provides:

See Lindsay Decl'n, Ex. 2. Appendix IV to the CBSA sets forth the terms and conditions of UPS-SCS's services under the agreement, and contains several limitations on UPS-SCS's potential liability when acting as a customs broker. Paragraph 8 limits UPS-SCS's liability "for any loss, damage, expense or delay to the goods resulting from the negligence or other fault of the Company" to a maximum of $50.00 per shipment. Id.

Paragraph 1 of Appendix IV (Services by Third Parties) explains that the limits set forth in paragraph 8 apply in the event UPS-SCS "carries, stores or otherwise physically handles" a shipment. Otherwise, UPS-SCS "assumes no liability as a carrier," "but undertakes only to use reasonable care in the selection of carriers, truckmen, lightermen, forwarders, customs brokers, agents, warehousemen and others to whom it may entrust the goods for transportation, cartage, handling and/or delivery and/or storage or otherwise." Id. Likewise, paragraph 2 of Appendix IV (Liability Limitations of Third Parties) states that UPS-SCS "shall under no circumstances be liable for any loss, damage, expense or delay to the goods for any reason whatsoever when said goods are in custody, possession or control of third parties selected by the Company to forward, enter and clear, transport or render other services with respect to such goods." Id.

When UPS-SCS acts as a customs broker for Rohr, the terms and conditions of the CBSA apply.18 If UPS-SCS is found to have acted solely as a customs broker with respect to the subject shipments in this case, the CBSA will limit its liability accordingly.19

Based on the foregoing, the Court GRANTS IN PART UPS-SCS's motion for partial summary judgment.

KNIGHT'S RENEWED MOTION FOR PARTIAL SUMMARY JUDGMENT

Knight has filed a "renewed" motion for partial summary judgment against Rohr, arguing that its liability for damages to cargo during the first shipment is limited to $500.00 per package pursuant to the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act ("COGSA"), 46 U.S.C. § 1304(5). These are the same grounds upon which Knight moved for partial summary judgment previously. Knight's argument once again hinges on its interpretation of Bill 1703, issued by UPS Europe SA, as the contract of carriage for the first shipment of cargo from Italy to Southern California. According to Knight, Bill 1703 is a "through" bill of lading.20

Knight presents the July 26, 2012 deposition testimony of UPS-SCS's expert Karen West as purportedly new evidence in support of this interpretation. Knight claims that Ms. West testified during deposition that Bill 1703 is a "through" bill of lading. As such, Knight contends that the terms and conditions of Bill 1703 apply to both the oceanic and inland legs of the first shipment. Among these terms and conditions is a limitation of the carrier's liability to "$500 per package, or for Goods not shipped in packages, per customary freight unit."21 The terms and conditions also include a Himalaya Clause22 extending the benefit of this liability limitation to "downstream parties expected to take part in the contract's execution," including subcontractors and participating land carriers.23 Norfolk Southern Ry. v. James N. Kirby, Pty Ltd., 543 U.S. 14, 20, 125 S.Ct. 385, 160 L.Ed.2d 283 (2004). As such a party, Knight argues that it enjoys the benefit of the $500 limitation on its liability for damages to cargo during the first shipment.

Rohr opposes the motion on both procedural and substantive grounds. Rohr argues that regardless of how Knight has styled the current motion, Knight effectively seeks reconsideration of the Court's denial of its previous motion for partial summary judgment. Rohr asserts that because Knight has not satisfied any of the grounds for reconsideration set forth in Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 60(b), the Court must deny relief. Rohr also challenges the merits of Knight's motion. According to Rohr, Bill 1703 is properly classified as a "port to port" bill of lading. As a result, the terms and conditions of Bill 1703 do not extend to Knight, and it cannot claim third party beneficiary status under the contract of carriage.24 Rohr argues that Knight misstates Ms. West's deposition testimony, and as such, this additional evidence requires no deviation from the Court's previous ruling denying Knight's motion for partial summary judgment.

Knight moves for relief on grounds identical to those raised in its original motion. The Court has already considered and ruled on the arguments and issues set forth in Knight's current motion. The addition of Ms. West's deposition testimony as supporting evidence is the only difference between the motions. As such, the Court construes the current motion as a request for reconsideration of its previous ruling denying relief on the basis of newly presented evidence.25

Legal Standard

"[A] motion for reconsideration should not be granted, absent highly unusual circumstances, unless the district court is presented with newly discovered evidence, committed clear error, or if there is an intervening change in the controlling law." 389 Orange Street Partners v. Arnold, 179 F.3d 656, 665 (9th Cir.1999) (citation omitted). Motions for reconsideration are "not designed merely to provide a dissatisfied litigant with additional opportunity to sway the Court." Teamsters Local 617 Pension and Welfare Funds v. Apollo Group, Inc., 282 F.R.D. 216, 232, (D.Ariz.2012); Khan v. Fasano, 194 F.Supp.2d 1134, 1136 (S.D.Cal.2001) ("A party cannot have relief under this rule merely because he or she is unhappy with the judgment.").

Discussion

Knight does not contend that the Court clearly erred, nor does it identify a change in the controlling law. Rather, Knight submits Ms. West's deposition testimony as new evidence compelling the Court to reverse its previous ruling. Evidence is not "newly discovered" if at the time of summary judgment it "could have been discovered with reasonable diligence." Wallis v. J.R. Simplot Co., 26 F.3d 885, 892 n. 6 (9th Cir.1994); see Fed.R.Civ.P. 60(b)(2), (c)(1). Here, Knight could have obtained Ms. West's testimony prior to moving for partial summary judgment if it had exercised reasonable diligence in doing so, or had merely waited until after the completion of expert discovery to file its motion. Therefore, Ms. West's deposition testimony is not "newly discovered evidence" for purposes of a motion for reconsideration. Frederick S. Wyle Prof'l Corp. v. Texaco, Inc., 764 F.2d 604, 609 (9th Cir.1985).

Even if the Court considers the evidence, Knight's motion is without merit. Ms. West's deposition testimony does not establish beyond dispute that Bill 1703 is a "through" bill of lading intended to cover both the oceanic and inland legs of the first shipment of cargo. When asked whether she considered Bill 1703 to be a through bill of lading, Ms. West responded, "[n]ot through to door but through to port." See Dalen Decl'n, Ex. 17 (West Depo. at 141). Ms. West further indicated that although UPS-SCS's price quote to Rohr included the cost of inland transportation, Bill 1703 (referred to during her deposition intermittently as the "ocean bill of lading") ended at the Port of Long Beach. Id. (West Depo. at 140).

In sum, Karen West's deposition testimony does not support Knight's assertion that UPS-SCS issued a through bill of lading extending its liability limitations to Knight as a third party beneficiary under COGSA. The proffered testimony actually suggests the opposite, and it certainly does not entitle Knight to a revised ruling in its favor. Accordingly, the Court DENIES Knight's motion.

ROHR'S MOTION FOR PARTIAL SUMMARY JUDGMENT

Rohr moves for partial summary judgment against UPS-SCS and Knight as to the following issues: (1) whether UPS-SCS is strictly liable for damages to cargo during the subject shipments pursuant to Carmack; (2) whether Knight is strictly liable for damages to cargo during the first shipment pursuant to Carmack; and (3) whether liability for damages to cargo during the subject shipments is contractually limited.

UPS-SCS's Liability Under Carmack

Rohr moves for summary judgment as to UPS-SCS's liability under Carmack. Rohr argues that UPS-SCS acted as a carrier and/or freight forwarder with respect to the shipments in dispute, and is subject to Carmack's statutory scheme of liability for damage to cargo during inland transportation.26 UPS-SCS contends that it has no liability under Carmack. In arranging the logistics of the two shipments in question, UPS-SCS argues that it acted as a customs broker only and therefore liability under Carmack does not attach.27

First, Rohr argues that UPS-SCS acted as a motor carrier with respect to both shipments. Under Carmack, a carrier is defined as "a motor carrier, a water carrier, and a freight forwarder." 49 U.S.C. § 13102(3). A "motor carrier" is a "person providing commercial motor vehicle transportation for compensation." Id. § 13102(14). Carmack requires carriers to issue a receipt or bill of lading for property received for transportation, and holds carriers liable for actual loss or injury to the property resulting from the transportation thereof in claims arising out of the receipt or bill of lading. 49 U.S.C. § 14706(a)(1); Babcock & Wilcox Co. v. Kansas City S. Ry. Co., 557 F.3d 134, 137 (3d Cir.2009). Rohr argues that the Delivery Instructions issued by UPS-SCS to Knight and CAL Modal/Look qualify as receipts or bills of lading for the inland transportation of the cargo; because UPS-SCS issued these documents, it is subject to liability as a carrier.

Secondly, Rohr argues "additionally, or alternatively," that UPS-SCS acted as a freight forwarder in relation to the subject shipments. See Doc. No. 62-1 at 15. A "freight forwarder" is defined by statute as:

49 U.S.C. § 13102(8). Rohr asserts that UPS-SCS holds itself out to the general public as a freight forwarder; it assumed responsibility for the "door to door" transportation of the damaged cargo; it used motor carriers for the inland transportation of the shipments; and, while it did not assemble, consolidate, or provide break-bulk for the two shipments, UPS-SCS routinely performs these services on other occasions.

UPS-SCS, on the other hand, puts forth evidence that it was acting as a broker. A broker is defined as "a person, other than a motor carrier or an employee or agent of a motor carrier, that as a principal or agent sells, offers for sale, negotiates for, or holds itself out by solicitation, advertisement, or otherwise as selling, providing, or arranging for, transportation by motor carrier for compensation." 49 U.S.C. § 13102(2).

The Court cannot resolve as a matter of law whether UPS-SCS acted as a motor carrier, freight forwarder, or broker. According to Rohr, UPS-SCS held itself out as providing "door to door" transportation for the shipments, including transportation to the final inland destination. See, e.g., Dalen Decl'n, Ex. 9 (Nicely email with subject header "FW: Logistics for 787 GE Tooling — OCEAN EXPORT MIL-LAX (door Riverside, CA)"). The price quote for the first shipment, provided to Rohr by the Italy pricing group of UPS-SCS, indicated "door to door" origin and destination. See Dalen Decl'n, Ex. 11. "Door to door" delivery included an inland leg with transportation by motor carrier, and UPS-SCS issued the relevant delivery instructions to the hired trucking services. Thus, Rohr argues that UPS-SCS acted as a motor carrier. See 49 U.S.C. § 14706(a)(1). But, as UPS-SCS points out, it did not issue separate bills of lading for the inland transit of the cargo. Bills 1703 and 2550 were for "port to port shipments" and clearly stated the "final destination" of each shipment of cargo as "door to CY [container yard]."28 And, the price quote for the second shipment indicated "port to port" as the origin and destination. See Dalen Decl'n, Ex. 11.

Furthermore, Rohr's own designated expert, Terry Morgan, testified during deposition that UPS-SCS was not acting as a motor carrier in the movement of either of the two shipments inland from the port.29 Morgan Depo. at 47-48. Morgan opined that UPS-SCS acted as a freight forwarder and described the delivery instructions issued by UPS-SCS for the inland portions of the shipments as "receipts." Id. at 78. Under Carmack, "[w]ith the consent of the freight forwarder, a motor carrier may deliver property for a freight forwarder on the freight forwarder's bill of lading, freight bill, or shipping receipt to the consignee named in it, and receipt for the property may be made on the freight forwarder's delivery receipt." 49 U.S.C. § 14706(a)(2). UPS-SCS argues that the delivery instructions were in fact just that — delivery instructions. In addition, because it did not assemble or consolidate freight, or provide break-bulk in connection to either shipment, UPS-SCS contends that its services do not satisfy the statutory definition of freight forwarding. See 49 U.S.C. § 13102(8).

According to UPS-SCS, it acted as a broker with respect to the subject shipments. The services provided to Rohr with respect to both shipments included customs brokerage, as indicated in the price quotes. See Lindsay Decl'n, Ex. 4. As Rohr's broker, UPS-SCS had the authority to hire motor carriers to transport cargo from the port to its final inland destination, which it exercised when it hired Knight and Look. The work statement attached as Appendix I to the CBSA anticipates that UPS-SCS would provide such services when acting as a customs broker. See Lindsay Decl'n, Ex. 1. For example, paragraph N of section 5 (Scope of Work) states: "Company shall prepare, and submit to carrier, inland bills of lading or pick-up delivery orders for prompt removal of merchandise from piers or cargo holding areas." Paragraph O of section 5 provides, in pertinent part: "Company shall monitor inland carriers to ensure timely pick-up and delivery, and shall promptly notify the Goodrich Division which is the importer of record of any delays." Following clearance of the cargo through U.S. Customs, UPS-SCS issued delivery instructions to the trucking services in accordance with the terms and conditions of the CBSA work statement.

In addition, UPS-SCS offers the testimony of expert Karen West, who opined during deposition that UPS-SCS acted as a broker. See Lindsay Decl'n, Ex. 35. UPS-SCS also attaches a bill of lading issued by CAL Modal with respect to the inland drayage of the second shipment.30 The bill of lading lists UPS-SCS as the "broker" and references Bill 2550. The terms and conditions of the bill of lading state that CAL Modal is a "motor carrier." In response, Rohr points out the CAL Modal's bill of lading was never issued, since UPS-SCS cancelled its arrangement with CAL Modal for the inland delivery of the second shipment.

The preceding discussion highlights only some of the numerous factual disputes that prevent the Court from determining whether UPS-SCS acted as a motor carrier, freight forwarder, or broker, on the basis of the current record.31 The issue, ultimately, is one for the trier of fact. Accordingly, the Court DENIES Rohr's motion for partial summary judgment as to UPS-SCS's liability under Carmack.

Rohr also requests the Court find as a matter of law that UPS-SCS did not successfully limit its liability for the damages sustained by the subject cargo. As discussed in detail above, the Court finds that UPS-SCS fails to establish that its liability is limited by the MSA, the terms and conditions of which are inapplicable to the subject shipments. Accordingly, the Court GRANTS IN PART Rohr's motion for partial summary judgment as to this narrow issue. However, if a trier of fact eventually finds that UPS-SCS acted as a customs broker with respect to both shipments, UPS-SCS's liability will be limited pursuant to the terms and conditions of the CBSA.

Knight's Liability Under Carmack

Rohr also moves for summary judgment as to Knight's liability under Carmack. Rohr contends that the following facts are undisputed: (1) Knight acted as a motor carrier with respect to the first shipment; (2) the cargo was delivered to Knight in good condition, but redelivered by Knight damaged; and (3) the damage occurred while Knight was in possession, custody, and control of the cargo. Rohr also requests the Court find as a matter of law that Knight's liability for damages to the first shipment of cargo is not limited by the terms and conditions referenced on UPS-SCS's delivery instructions and invoices.

Knight refers the Court to the arguments and evidence in support of its renewed motion for partial summary judgment.32 Knight does not dispute that the subject cargo was damaged in a motor vehicle accident while it was being transported by Knight. However, Knight disputes Rohr's contention that Carmack applies to the inland drayage of the cargo. As discussed above, Knight contends that COGSA, not Carmack, provides the applicable statutory scheme of liability, and its liability is limited under COGSA by the terms and conditions of Bill 1703.

As Rohr notes in its opposition to Knight's motion, the Court previously held that genuine issues of fact preclude a finding that COGSA applies to limit Knight's liability in this case. Consistent with the finding that Knight fails to set forth sufficient grounds for reconsideration of this previous ruling, the Court declines to hold otherwise on the basis of the current record. Knight cannot be found liable under Carmack if the trier of fact ultimately finds that Knight was a third party beneficiary of the terms and conditions of Bill 1703 under COGSA.

Accordingly, the Court DENIES Rohr's motion for partial summary judgment as to Knight's liability under Carmack.

CONCLUSION

For the reasons set forth above, the Court GRANTS IN PART and DENIES IN PART Defendant UPS Supply Chain Solution, Inc.'s motion for partial summary judgment, DENIES Defendant Knight Transportation, Inc.'s renewed motion for partial summary judgment, and DENIES Plaintiff Rohr, Inc.'s motion for partial summary judgment in substantial part.

Subsequent to the transfer of this case to the undersigned, all remaining deadlines and hearings set forth in the Court's amended scheduling order were vacated. See Doc. No. 82. In addition, the mandatory settlement conference previously set before the assigned magistrate judge was vacated. See Doc. No. 83. Accordingly, the Court instructs counsel for the parties to jointly contact the Chambers of Magistrate Judge William V. Gallo within seven (7) calendar days from the date this Order is filed, to discuss rescheduling the previously vacated settlement conference and/or scheduling a case management conference.

IT IS SO ORDERED.