How to Fill a CMR Document: Complete Guide

This field contains the complete identification information of the sender (consignor) — the party who initiates the shipment and hands over the goods to the carrier for transport.

• Enter the full legal company name or individual name exactly as registered
• Provide the complete registered address including street, building number, city, postal code, and country
• Include a primary contact phone number for shipment-related inquiries and coordination
• Add an email address for electronic communication and shipment updates (highly recommended for efficient CMR generation)
• If required by customs regulations, include company registration number or VAT/tax identification number
• Ensure all information is accurate and matches official company registration documents, as this data is used for customs clearance and legal verification

This field identifies the consignee (receiver) — the party designated to receive the goods at the destination point.

• Enter the full company name or individual name of the receiver (as it appears in commercial agreements or invoices)
• Provide the complete delivery address including street name, building number, floor/suite if applicable, city, postal code, and country of destination
• Include contact phone number and email address of the receiving party or their representative
• Verify that the delivery address is accessible for the type of vehicle being used for transport

This field specifies the exact delivery location where the goods must be delivered to the consignee. While it typically matches Box 2, it allows for more specific location details.

• Enter the precise delivery point including any specific location identifiers
• If different from Box 2, specify the exact warehouse name or number, loading dock designation, or facility entrance
• Include any gate numbers, building codes, or zone designations that drivers need to locate the delivery point
• For large facilities or industrial areas, provide navigation instructions or landmark references
• In most standard cases, you can reference Box 2 by writing “As in Box 2” or simply repeat the delivery address

This field records where and when the carrier officially takes over the goods from the sender, marking the beginning of the carrier’s responsibility for the shipment.

• Enter the exact location (city or specific facility) where the goods are handed over to the carrier
• Specify the date of takeover using the format DD/MM/YYYY (or the date format accepted in your region)
• The location is typically the sender’s warehouse, distribution center, or loading facility
• This date marks the start of the carrier’s liability period and is crucial for calculating delivery timeframes

This field lists all accompanying documents that are attached to the shipment and travel with the goods. Proper documentation is essential for customs clearance and delivery. Refer to your country’s customs authority requirements for specific documentation needs.

• Commercial invoices — detailed invoices showing the value and description of goods
• Packing lists — itemized lists of package contents, quantities, and weights
• Certificates of origin — documents certifying where the goods were manufactured or produced
• Export/import licenses — required permits for controlled or regulated goods
• Certificates of conformity or quality certificates — if required for specific products
• Dangerous goods declarations — if transporting hazardous materials (see ADR requirements)
• Veterinary or phytosanitary certificates — for animal products or plants
• Any other relevant documentation required by customs regulations or the nature of the goods

This field records any identification marks, numbers, labels, or symbols that are physically marked on the packages or cargo. These markings help identify and track the shipment throughout transport.

• Enter any package identification numbers or serial numbers visible on the cargo
• Include shipping labels or barcode numbers affixed to packages
• Note any company logos or brand markings on the packaging
• Record handling symbols (e.g., “Fragile”, “This Side Up”, “Keep Dry”) if prominently displayed
• Include dangerous goods symbols or hazard warnings if applicable to the shipment
• Add pallet numbers or container markings for larger shipments
• If no specific marks exist, you may write “No marks” or leave blank

This field specifies the total quantity and type of packages, units, or loading units being shipped. Accurate package count is essential for verification at delivery.

• State the total number of packages, pallets, boxes, or other shipping units
• Be specific about the packaging type (e.g., “10 pallets”, “25 cardboard boxes”, “5 wooden crates”)
• If using mixed packaging types, list each type separately (e.g., “15 boxes + 3 pallets”)
• For bulk shipments, specify the appropriate unit (e.g., “1 container”, “2 trailers”)
• Ensure the count matches the actual physical number of units being loaded
• This number should correspond with the packing list and will be verified upon delivery

This field describes the method and materials used to pack the goods for transport. Proper packing description helps carriers handle the shipment appropriately and assess liability in case of damage.

• Describe the primary packing method (e.g., “cardboard boxes”, “wooden crates”, “metal drums”, “plastic containers”)
• Specify any secondary packaging or protection (e.g., “shrink-wrapped pallets”, “bubble-wrapped items”, “foam-padded boxes”)
• Indicate if goods are palletized, containerized, or shipped as loose cargo
• For temperature-sensitive goods, mention insulated packaging or refrigerated containers
• Note any special protective measures (e.g., “moisture-resistant packaging”, “anti-static bags”)
• Be specific enough for the carrier to understand how to handle and protect the shipment during transport

This field provides a description of the goods being transported. The description must be clear and detailed enough for customs authorities and carriers to understand what is being shipped.

• Provide a clear and specific description of the goods — avoid vague terms like “general cargo” or “various goods”
• Include the product category or type (e.g., “Electronic components”, “Automotive parts”, “Food products - non-perishable”)
• For regulated or dangerous goods, include required details (e.g., “Lithium batteries UN3481”)
• The description should match the information on commercial invoices and packing lists

This field is used to enter the classification code for the goods, primarily for customs and statistical purposes.

• Enter the HS (Harmonized System) code — a standardized 6-digit or longer code that classifies traded products internationally. You can search for HS codes using the World Customs Organization’s official database
• May also include the customs tariff number specific to the importing country
• Required for most international shipments for customs clearance and duty calculation
• If uncertain about the correct code, consult customs authorities or use the WCO HS classification tools
• This information is often available from your supplier or can be found on commercial invoices

This field specifies the total gross weight of the entire shipment, essential for freight calculation, vehicle loading, and customs clearance.

• Enter the total gross weight in kilograms (kg), including all packaging, pallets, and protective materials
• Use certified scale measurements when available
• Ensure accuracy — discrepancies may cause issues at weigh stations or customs checkpoints

This field specifies the total volume of the shipment in cubic meters, particularly important for LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipments and freight pricing.

• Enter the total volume in cubic meters (m³) of all packages combined
• Calculate by measuring length × width × height of packages (or use pallet dimensions)
• Critical for determining vehicle space requirements and calculating freight costs
• May be left blank for FTL (Full Truckload) shipments where volume is not a pricing factor

These subfields are used for mandatory indication of dangerous goods information in accordance with the ADR Agreement (Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road), established in 1957 and regularly updated by UNECE.

• When transporting dangerous goods, the sender is obliged to inform the carrier about their exact nature and necessary precautions
• Indicate the Class, UN Number (Identification Number), and, if required, Letter (classification code) of the dangerous goods as specified by ADR 2025 regulations
• This information, along with the proper shipping name of the dangerous goods (indicated in Box 9: Nature of the Goods), is necessary for compliance with customs and safety regulations
• These fields must be completed for all shipments containing hazardous materials as classified under ADR

Enter special instructions or additional requirements for the carrier that are not specified in other fields:

• Instructions regarding cargo insurance (if not filled in a separate field or clarification is needed)
• Instructions for customs and other formalities
• Any other instructions you deem useful or necessary for carrying out the transport, such as:
  • Requirements that transshipment is not allowed
  • Specific delivery time windows
  • Special handling requirements
  • Contact instructions for delivery

Indicate the sender’s instructions regarding payment of freight costs. You must clearly specify who is responsible for paying the carriage.

Select and write in, or circle, the appropriate option from the two standard ones:

• Carriage paid / Fracht frankiert / Frei — freight is paid by the Sender
• Carriage forward / Fracht unfrankiert / Unfrei — freight is paid by the Receiver

Additional notes:

• You may also add brief notes if payment is made by a third party
• Include any specific payment terms if required

This field is used to indicate the amount of cash on delivery (collection) that the carrier must collect from the receiver upon delivery of the goods.

• Clearly enter the amount to be paid by the receiver to the carrier
• The amount must be indicated in figures and in words (or at least in figures)
• Always include the currency (e.g., 1000 EUR, 500 USD)
• Filling in this field instructs the carrier not to release the goods until the receiver pays the specified amount

This field is intended for indicating comprehensive data of the actual carrier (transport company) who accepts the goods and enters into the contract of carriage.

• Enter the full name, exact address and country of registration of the carrier
• For convenience and tracking, specify the registration number of the vehicle or trailer used for transport
• Add the contact phone or email address of the carrier
• If applicable, specify permit numbers (e.g., international transport licenses), if required by the route or nature of the cargo

This field is intended for indicating data of successive (replacement) carriers who accept the goods to continue the transport from the main carrier (specified in Box 16).

• Fill in if the goods are transferred from one carrier to another (e.g., at the border or at a transit point)
• Follow the same principles as Box 16. For each successive carrier, indicate:
  • Full name and address of the company
  • Registration number of the vehicle/trailer (for tracking)
  • Contact details (phone, email)
• Each successive carrier, upon accepting the goods, must sign and stamp in the space designated for them in this field

This field is intended for entering reservations, remarks and claims of the carrier regarding the condition of the cargo or its packaging upon acceptance.

• The carrier enters remarks if the external condition of the cargo or its packaging, or number of packages, marks and numbers do not correspond to what is indicated in the consignment note or have visible defects
• The carrier must clearly justify each reservation (e.g., “torn packaging”, “insufficient number of packages”, “damaged pallet”)
• If there are no reservations in this field, it is presumed that the cargo and its packaging were accepted in good condition, and the quantity and marking corresponded to the consignment note

This field is intended for indicating any special conditions, agreements or instructions that have been agreed upon between the sender and the carrier and are not reflected in other standard fields.

Examples of what can be included:

• Agreed delivery deadline (if not specified elsewhere)
• Requirement for prohibition of transshipment (“transshipment is not allowed”)
• Temperature control requirements for sensitive goods
• Security or insurance requirements
• Any other useful details that the parties consider necessary to record in the contract

This field represents a calculation summary of all payments related to the transport, and is used to indicate which part of the expenses falls on the Sender and which on the Receiver.

• Fill in the amounts for each category of expenses (freight, additional charges, insurance, etc.)
• Use the corresponding columns (Sender and Consignee) to indicate which party pays a specific amount in the specified currency
• In the bottom row (Total to be paid) indicate the total amount that each participant must pay
• Ensure all amounts are clearly marked with the currency (EUR, USD, etc.)

This field is intended for indicating the location (city or locality) where the International Road Transport Consignment Note (CMR) was actually prepared and issued.

• Indicate the city or locality in which the Sender (or their authorized person) issued this consignment note
• Include the date (day, month, year) of actual preparation of the document
• This location usually coincides with the place where the goods were accepted by the carrier (Box 4)

This block is intended for legal confirmation by the Sender of the fact of issuing the consignment note and handing over the goods.

• The Sender (or their authorized representative) must put their signature in this field
• Affix the seal or stamp of the Sender’s organization (if available)
• The signature confirms the Sender’s agreement with the terms of carriage specified in the consignment note, and the fact of transfer of the goods to the Carrier

This block is intended for legal confirmation by the Carrier of the fact of accepting the goods and the terms of carriage.

• The Carrier (or their authorized representative) must put their signature in this field
• Affix the seal or stamp of the Carrier’s organization (if available)
• The signature and stamp of the Carrier confirm that they accepted the goods and agree with the terms specified in the consignment note, including any reservations entered in Box 18

This field is used to record the fact, place and date of transfer of goods and completion of transport — when the Receiver accepts the goods from the Carrier.

• Filled in by the Receiver (or their representative) upon arrival of the goods
• Indicate the place (city) and date (day, month, year) of actual delivery of the goods
• The Receiver must put their signature and stamp in the designated place, confirming receipt of the goods and the consignment note

A minimum of three original copies must be prepared:

• Copy 1: Retained by the sender (consignor) as proof of shipment
• Copy 2: Travels with the goods and is retained by the carrier
• Copy 3: Delivered to the receiver (consignee) upon arrival

All three copies must be signed by the sender, carrier, and (upon delivery) receiver. Additional copies can be created for internal records or customs authorities as needed.

No. A CMR document is not legally valid without proper signatures from all three parties:

• The sender must sign Box 22 when handing over goods
• The carrier must sign Box 23 when accepting goods
• The receiver must sign Box 24 upon delivery

Missing signatures can invalidate insurance claims and void liability protections under the CMR Convention.

Yes. While the CMR Convention originated in Europe, it has been ratified by 57+ countries worldwide, including many in Asia (e.g., Turkey, Kazakhstan, Mongolia) and North Africa (e.g., Morocco, Tunisia). As long as both the origin and destination countries are signatories to the CMR Convention, the document is valid. Check the UNECE list of contracting parties for current member countries.

Both formats are legally equivalent under the 2008 Additional Protocol to the CMR Convention. Key differences:

Learn more in our guide on digital transformation in logistics.

Vague descriptions like “general cargo” or “various goods” can cause:

• Customs delays: Authorities may hold your shipment for clarification
• Inspection requirements: Increased likelihood of physical inspection
• Duty calculation issues: Incorrect tariff classification and fees
• Insurance problems: Claims may be denied due to insufficient documentation

Always be specific (e.g., “Laptop computers, Dell Latitude 5520, 15.6-inch displays” instead of “electronic devices”). See our article on common CMR mistakes for more examples.

Only if your shipment contains dangerous goods as classified by the ADR Agreement. This includes:

• Flammable materials (e.g., solvents, paints)
• Gases (compressed, liquefied, or dissolved)
• Toxic substances
• Corrosive materials
• Lithium batteries (Class 9, UN 3481/3480)
• Certain chemicals and pharmaceuticals

If transporting dangerous goods, you must indicate the ADR Class, UN Number, and Letter in the designated CMR fields. Failure to declare dangerous goods is a serious legal violation. Consult the ADR classification tables for details.