CMR, short for Convention Relative au Contrat de Transport International de Marchandises par Route (Convention on the Contract for the International Carriage of Goods by Road), is an international treaty governing the transport of goods by road between participating countries. It sets out the rights and responsibilities of parties involved in road transportation, including carriers, shippers, and consignees. The CMR Convention covers various aspects of road transportation, including documentation, liability, and insurance. Here are the main types of documents and concepts related to CMR:
- CMR Consignment Note (CMR Document):
- The CMR consignment note is a standardized document used for international road transport of goods. It serves as evidence of the contract of carriage and contains essential information about the shipment, such as the names and addresses of the sender (consignor), the carrier, and the recipient (consignee), as well as details of the goods, their quantity, and their condition.
- Carrier:
- The carrier is the party responsible for transporting the goods under the terms of the CMR Convention. The carrier may be a trucking company or an individual operator, and they are obligated to deliver the goods to the agreed destination in a safe and timely manner.
- Shipper (Consignor):
- The shipper, also known as the consignor, is the party that contracts with the carrier to transport goods. The shipper is responsible for preparing the goods for shipment, providing accurate information for the CMR consignment note, and ensuring compliance with customs and transportation regulations.
- Consignee:
- The consignee is the party to whom the goods are consigned or delivered at the destination. The consignee may be the buyer, importer, or another designated recipient. They are responsible for receiving the goods, inspecting them for damages or discrepancies, and arranging for their further distribution or storage.
- Liability and Insurance:
- The CMR Convention establishes rules regarding the liability of the carrier for loss, damage, or delay to the goods during transportation. Under CMR, carriers are generally liable for loss or damage to the goods, unless they can prove that the loss or damage occurred due to circumstances beyond their control. Carriers are required to maintain insurance coverage to compensate shippers for any loss or damage to the goods during transit.
- Transit Procedures:
- CMR regulates various aspects of transit procedures, including documentation requirements, customs clearance, and border crossings. The CMR consignment note serves as a key document for customs authorities to verify the legality and authenticity of the shipment.
Overall, the CMR Convention provides a comprehensive framework for international road transportation, ensuring the smooth and efficient movement of goods across borders. It establishes clear rules and procedures for carriers, shippers, and consignees, helping to minimize disputes and ensure the safe and timely delivery of goods.