The great duty which a common carrier owes to the public is that of receiving and carrying the goods of all persons indiscriminately. Carriers are bound to receive and transport all freight tendered, according to the custom and usage of their business.19 It is the specific duty of carriers to serve all alike. Favors and preferences are to be avoided. A common carrier cannot carry for one and refuse to carry for another. A railroad is without right to grant privileges where the public is concerned.20

A common carrier, however, may restrict the scope of his business, either as to location, or as to the class of goods transported; for example, a common carrier is not bound to receive dangerous articles, such as nitroglycerine, dynamite, gunpowder, oil of vitriol, matches, etc.21 But as to kinds of property, which the carrier is in the habit of carrying in the prosecution of his business, he is bound to serve all customers alike.22 In order to be a refusal to transport, there must be a tender of goods for shipment.23