The CMR consignment note is the driver's most important document in international transport. Here is what it must contain, how and when you make reservations on receipt of goods, and how the carrier is liable for loss, damage and delay — with the liability limit of 8.33 SDR per kg and a worked-out compensation example.
Introduction
In international road transport of goods, the consignment note is the driver's most important document. It documents what has been taken on, in what condition and on what terms. The framework is the CMR Convention (Geneva 1956), implemented in Denmark by the CMR Act (Act on International Freight Contracts). The rules apply to international road transport and can be agreed to apply to national transport as well.
What is a CMR consignment note?
The CMR consignment note is the proof of the freight contract between sender and carrier. It is typically issued in three copies (sender, recipient and carrier) and accompanies the goods. Note: the contract itself is valid and subject to the CMR Act, even if a consignment note has not been created or it lacks content — but without a consignment note it is difficult to prove what was agreed and taken on.
What should the freight note contain?
- 01Sender, carrier and recipient (name and address).
- 02Place and date of goods handover and the specified delivery location.
- 03Nature of goods, number of packages, marking and gross weight.
- 04Transport costs and any instructions (customs, fees, etc.).
- 05Statement that the transport is subject to CMR, and any special agreements.
Reservation at acceptance
When the driver takes over the goods, he must inspect them. If he cannot verify the correctness of the information (e.g. number of items and markings) or the visible condition of the goods, he must make a reservation and write the reason on the bill of lading. Without a reservation, there is a presumption that the goods and packaging were in good and complete condition when taken over — so lost reservations can cost the haulier dearly.
Freight forwarder's responsibility
The carrier is responsible for the goods from acceptance to delivery. The responsibility covers three situations:
- 01Loss (total or partial) of goods.
- 02Damage to the goods.
- 03Late delivery (exceeding the agreed — or a reasonable — delivery time).
The carrier can be exempt if the loss is due to circumstances beyond their control — for example, error by the shipper, the nature of the goods themselves, or circumstances the carrier could not prevent. The burden of proof for exemption rests with the carrier.
Members only
The rest of the article is locked
Create a free user account to unlock all articles, calculators, templates and range — and get access to quizzes and classes. It takes less than a minute: name, email and a password. No payment card.
Want to try something first? See what you can use without an account — the junior zone, the encyclopedia, the videos and more.