CMR and TIR: documents for international road freight
Understand the roles of the CMR consignment note and TIR Carnet, how they differ and which documents to prepare for international road freight.
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The CMR consignment note records the details of an international road shipment and provides evidence of the transport agreement. The TIR Carnet is used for customs transit under the TIR system. A shipment may use both documents, depending on the route and customs procedure. This guide provides general information, not legal or customs advice.
What is CMR?
The CMR consignment note is used for road shipments covered by the Convention on the Contract for the International Carriage of Goods by Road. It identifies the sender, carrier and consignee, the loading and delivery locations, and the goods being carried.
- A paper CMR note is normally prepared in three originals: one for the sender, one accompanying the goods and one for the carrier.
- It provides evidence of the transport agreement and the carrier's receipt of the goods.
- Record visible damage, package shortages and any reservations when the goods are collected or delivered.
What is TIR?
TIR is an international customs transit system. The TIR Carnet is the customs document used within that system, which includes a guarantee for customs duties and taxes that may become payable. Goods generally travel in approved, sealed vehicles or containers. The procedure can simplify transit across participating countries, but customs authorities may still inspect the goods along the route.
How CMR and TIR work together
- CMR consignment note: records who is carrying the goods, for whom and under what conditions.
- TIR Carnet: supports the movement of goods through customs under the TIR transit procedure.
A shipment may use a CMR note together with a TIR Carnet. Other shipments use a CMR note with a different customs procedure. The documents serve separate purposes, so one does not replace the other.
What to prepare before the trip
- The shipper's commercial invoice and packing list.
- A completed CMR note checked against the shipment details.
- A TIR Carnet and applicable vehicle or container approval documents if the shipment uses TIR.
- Driver documents, vehicle registration and permits required along the route.
The documents required depend on the countries, cargo and customs procedure. Before departure, confirm the current requirements with your customs broker or the relevant authorities, and agree with the shipper and consignee who will prepare each document. For questions about using the platform, visit the help center.