What a CMR consignment note is
CMR is the international consignment note — the key document for road transport of cargo between countries.
The name comes from the CMR Convention (Geneva, 1956), which governs international road transport. The note evidences the transport contract and travels with the cargo.
What a CMR contains
The note records the sender and consignee, the carrier, the description and weight of the cargo, the loading and unloading places, and any remarks about the cargo's condition. It is at once a contract, a receipt for the cargo and the basis for claims if something goes wrong.
Who fills it in and signs
A CMR is usually issued in three copies: for the sender, the consignee and the carrier. The sender is responsible for the accuracy of the cargo data, the driver checks and accepts the cargo, noting any discrepancies. The parties' signatures turn the paper into a legal document.
Why it matters
A correctly completed CMR protects everyone: it determines liability for damage or shortage and is used to file claims against the carrier. Errors in the note lead to border delays and disputes, so filling it in is best left to a forwarder.
We arrange transport with correct CMR and other paperwork — you won't need to master the fine print.