This study investigates successive carriage, a distinct legal and commercial form of international transport, arising from the absence or irregularity of direct transport routes. Under this system, multiple carriers perform consecutive stages of transport under a single document, with the first carrier fully liable to the consignor or passenger, including breaches in subsequent stages. The research examines the role of direct and indirect transport documents and the concept of recourse, allowing a carrier who has compensated an injured party to seek reimbursement from other carriers. It highlights carriers’ duties to inspect goods, document their condition, and collect freight, and critically analyzes maritime carrier liability under Iraqi Transport Law No. 80 of 1983, noting conflicts with the Civil Code and gaps in harmonization. The findings confirm that liability requires fault, damage, and a causal link, and underscore the need for a comprehensive Iraqi maritime code to ensure legal clarity, protect stakeholders, and align with international standards