CMR - International Consignment Note: A Guide for Importers and Exporters

Introduction The CMR, also known as the International Consignment Note (ICN), is the standard contract-of-carriage document used in international road transport. In this guide we take a closer look at this key document and learn how to use it correctly. What is the CMR? CMR stands for 'Convention relative au contrat de transport international de marchandises par route', which can be translated as 'Contract for the International Carriage of Goods by Road'. This document was defined under the 1956 United Nations Convention on the Contract for the International Carriage of Goods by Road, known as the CMR Convention. Functions and use of the CMR The CMR consignment note serves as evidence of the road carriage contract, defines the scope of and responsibility for the operation carried out, and identifies the parties involved and the goods transported. Its use means complying with the CMR (Convention relative au contrat de transport international de marchandises par route), which governs this document. Who issues the CMR document? This document should be issued by the carrier (the truck driver) with all the information needed to formalise receipt of the goods. In practice, however, it is usually the exporter (consignor) who fills in the document once the truck arrives at their warehouse, always in the case of full loads. In the case of groupage, this document is usually handled by the forwarding agent, since there is internal transport involved in collecting goods grouped together with other goods from different exporters, in order to send them jointly to the final destination in a foreign country. Electronic CMR / e-CMR The e-CMR, or electronic CMR, is the digital equivalent of the paper CMR consignment note, which is used and signed in 4 copies (consignor, consignee, carrier and administration). Its use means complying with the CMR Convention, which governs it. Summary A carrier must hold a CMR note in order to be able to carry goods commercially by road internationally. The carrier is entitled to refuse to carry the goods if a complete CMR document is not provided. Remember that correctly understanding and using the CMR is key to effective and lawful international road transport. Make sure you are well prepared and always consult an expert if in doubt.