The Contract for the International Carriage of Goods by Road (CMR) is a legal document that governs the transportation of goods across international borders. This contract is used by freight carriers and shippers to ensure that the goods are transported safely and securely, and to provide a standardized set of terms and conditions for the transaction.
The CMR is an important document because it sets out the rights and obligations of parties involved in the transportation of goods. It covers a range of issues, including the responsibility of the carrier, the packaging and labeling of goods, and the liability of the parties in the event of loss or damage.
One of the key features of the CMR is that it provides a limit on the liability of the carrier. Under the terms of the CMR, the carrier is liable for loss or damage to the goods up to a maximum amount of 8.33 Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) per kilogram of gross weight of the goods lost or damaged. This limit can be increased by contractual agreement between the parties.
The CMR also sets out the procedures for making claims for loss or damage to goods. The carrier must be informed of any loss or damage within 7 days of delivery, and a written claim must be made within 14 days of the delivery of the goods. Failure to comply with these timelines can result in the loss of the right to claim compensation.
In addition to the standard terms and conditions, the CMR can also be modified by specific national laws or international conventions. For example, the Hague-Visby Rules are a set of international rules that govern the transportation of goods by sea, and these rules can also be incorporated into the terms of the CMR.
Overall, the CMR is an essential document for anyone involved in the international transportation of goods. By providing a standardized set of terms and conditions, it ensures that the rights and obligations of all parties are clearly defined and that the goods are transported safely and securely.