What is a CMR note and why does it matter?
Regulation · September 2, 2026 · 6 min read
The CMR note is the contract document that records the relationship between cargo and carrier in international road transport. It takes its name from the 1956 Geneva Convention and is valid in more than 50 countries, Türkiye included.
What it contains
Sender and consignee details, pickup and delivery addresses, the nature of the goods, packaging, gross weight and any special instructions. The vehicle plate and driver details appear on it too. Once the receiving party signs, the carriage is considered complete.
Why it matters
Two reasons. First, when cargo is damaged or lost, the CMR is the basis of any claim. If the consignee does not note the damage on the document at delivery, claiming later becomes very difficult. Second, it is the official proof in customs and tax procedures that the goods were actually moved.
About the insurance
CMR insurance covers carrier liability, but not without limit. Compensation is calculated per kilogram of missing or damaged goods, up to a ceiling set by the convention. If your cargo has a high value per kilogram — electronics, pharmaceuticals, spare parts — CMR alone is not enough. In that case you need separate cargo insurance based on the invoice value.
In short: read the CMR before signing, always note damage on it, and discuss extra insurance when your cargo is valuable.
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