What is a CMR consignment note and why does it matter?

CMR is the short name of the Convention on the Contract for the International Carriage of Goods by Road, signed in Geneva in 1956. Almost all of Europe, including Turkey, and many countries from Central Asia to North Africa are parties. The consignment note carries the same name: the CMR.

When does it apply?

CMR applies when the place of taking over the goods and the place of delivery are in two different countries and at least one of them is a contracting state. The parties cannot contract out of it; the convention is mandatory law.

The copies

Under Article 5 the consignment note is made out in three original copies signed by the sender and the carrier:

1. The first copy is handed to the sender.
2. The second copy accompanies the goods and goes to the consignee.
3. The third copy is retained by the carrier.

Most printed forms include extra copies. The consignee's signature on delivery is the key proof that the goods were delivered.

The carrier's liability

The carrier is liable for loss, damage and delay from the moment it takes over the goods until delivery. Under Article 23, compensation for loss or damage is capped at 8.33 units of account (SDR) per kilogram of gross weight. The cap can be raised if the sender declares a higher value and pays a surcharge.

Reporting damage and delay

• Apparent damage: reservations must be written on the consignment note at delivery.
• Non-apparent damage: written notice within 7 days of delivery, excluding Sundays and public holidays.
• Delay: written notice within 21 days from the time the goods were placed at the consignee's disposal.

Missing these deadlines makes a claim much harder.

Electronic CMR

An additional protocol adopted in 2008 allows the consignment note to be issued electronically (e-CMR). More countries ratify it each year, but make sure both countries on the route are parties.

CMR on Order And Load

In the driver app the driver uploads a photo or PDF of the signed CMR at delivery. The document is attached to the order and both sides can view it without downloading. The CMR is required before delivery is completed, so the payment term rests on an undisputed document.