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How to fill in a CMR?
a step-by-step guide

The CMR consignment note is the core document in international transport. Completing it correctly is not just a formality, it shapes how the transport runs and how any settlement is handled.

What is a CMR?

The CMR consignment note confirms that a contract of carriage has been concluded in international transport. It sets out the key information about the cargo, the consignor, the consignee and the terms of transport.

Filling in a CMR, step by step

01

Consignor details (box 1)

Name and address of the company sending the goods.

02

Consignee details (box 2)

Name and address of the consignee together with the place of delivery.

03

Place of loading and unloading (boxes 3 and 4)

Exact locations along with the dates.

04

Description of the cargo (boxes 6-12)

Type of goods, number of pallets, type of packaging. For dangerous goods, also the ADR markings.

05

Weight of the cargo (box 11)

Gross weight of the shipment.

06

Carrier (box 16)

Details of the company performing the transport.

07

Signatures and stamps

The document should be signed by the consignor and the carrier. After delivery, the consignee signs it as well.

What to watch out for

the details must match reality
missing information can cause problems at settlement
errors in the CMR can undermine a transport claim

The CMR is also the document that counts when a dispute arises.

The most common mistakes when filling in a CMR

incomplete consignor or consignee details
an imprecise description of the cargo
no weight stated
carrier details left out
missing signatures

Frequently asked questions

Who fills in the CMR?

Usually the consignor of the goods, though in practice the document can also be prepared by the freight forwarder or the carrier.

Is a CMR mandatory?

Yes. In international road transport it is the basic transport document.

How many copies of the CMR are needed?

As standard, three original copies are prepared: for the consignor, the carrier and the consignee.

Can a CMR be corrected?

Yes, but every change should be legible and confirmed by the parties.

Is a CMR required for every international transport?

Yes. It is the document confirming the carriage of goods between countries.

Questions about transport documents?

We can help you organise the transport and handle the paperwork.

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