CMR Convention
The CMR Convention establishes common rules for contracts for the international carriage of goods by road.
What is the CMR Convention?
The Convention on the Contract for the International Carriage of Goods by Road, known as the CMR, was concluded in Geneva on 19 May 1956 and entered into force on 2 July 1961.
When does it apply?
In general, the CMR applies to the carriage of goods by road for reward when the place of taking over the goods and the place designated for delivery are in two different countries and at least one is a Contracting Party.
What does it regulate?
The Convention regulates the contract of carriage, the CMR consignment note, the obligations of the parties and carrier liability, including rules concerning loss, damage and delay in delivery.
The CMR consignment note
The consignment note records essential transport information such as the sender, consignee, carrier, places of taking over and delivery and the description of the goods. The Convention sets out the information to be included and its role in the contract of carriage.
e-CMR: the electronic consignment note
In 2008 an Additional Protocol to the CMR concerning the electronic consignment note was adopted. In countries where it applies, the Protocol enables the consignment note to be made out using electronic procedures under the prescribed conditions.
Official texts and sources
The authentic texts of the Convention are English and French. Consult the official United Nations sources for the legal text and the current treaty status.
- CMR Convention — United Nations Treaty Collection
- e-CMR Protocol — United Nations Treaty Collection
- e-CMR information — UNECE
This page is for information only and does not replace the official text of the Convention or legal advice.
Need to prepare a CMR consignment note?
CMR FastAgency lets you complete a CMR online, keep it in your archive and print it or save it as a PDF.