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The international transport of goods is governed by a number of regulations that require the production of appropriate documentation. 

For example, a Transportation Document (DDT) is required domestically, while additional specific documents are required for international transport. The distinction between certifications required for domestic and international transportation is crucial to ensure compliance with applicable laws and facilitate the passage of goods through different jurisdictions.

In this article we go over in detail what documentation is required when it comes to international transportation. 

International transport documents 

The transport document may consist of any administrative, fiscal or customs document, as well as specific documents accompanying goods subject to special fiscal, sanitary or security regimes.

The suitability of the transport document must be assessed by its ability to attest to the regularity of the transport as required by the regulations. To be considered adequate, the document must contain essential elements such as the type and quantity of goods, the place of loading and unloading, and the identity of the carrier or sub-carrier performing the transport.

Please note that transport documents serve as proof of the contract of carriage and indicate the relevant law or convention. They also certify the quantity and quality of the goods shipped.

The two main types of international transport documents are:

• waybill: accompanies the goods to their destination;
• bill of lading: travels separate from the goods as it represents the title of the goods and is delivered, signed, in exchange for the goods.

Documents international transport by air

Air waybills are documents that confirm the existence of a contract of carriage between the shipper and the air carrier, detailing the goods transported. These documents are issued both for cargo loaded on aircraft dedicated exclusively to the carriage of cargo (all-cargo or freighters) and for cargo placed in the cargo holds of passenger aircraft.

Notably, the air waybill does not represent title to the goods, but only a title of legitimacy, which means that even those who do not possess the original can still dispose of the goods.

It functions as a shipping receipt from the point of departure to the point of arrival and is a customs document, as a copy must be presented to the customs authorities during customs clearance formalities.

It is used to calculate and pay transportation charges and can serve as a certificate of insurance for any damage to the goods transported.

It is issued upon delivery of the goods, before they are loaded onto the plane. If issued by the air carrier or its agent, it is called a “Master” AWB (MAWB); in the case of groupage shipments issued by a freight forwarder, it is called a “House” AWB (HAWB). 

Documents required for international land transportation 

The International Road Union (IRU) has created a standard international waybill, based on the Convention relative au contrat de transport international de marchandises par route (CMR), which governs international road transportation contracts. This document, commonly known as the CMR, certifies the existence of the contract of carriage, the acceptance of goods and their status. 

It provides detailed information on:

• goods transported;
• mode and conditions of transport;
• place of destination.

 The CMR international waybill is not a negotiable security, so it does not allow the transfer of ownership of the goods during the journey. It does not physically represent the goods, allowing the consignee to handle them even without the original. It reproduces the agreements of the contract of carriage, functions as a delivery document and certifies receipt at destination, and allows the carrier to check the status of the goods.

The validity of the contract of carriage does not depend on the waybill, so any omissions or irregularities in its completion do not affect the existence of the contract. The CMR applies to all contracts of carriage for consideration by road between two different countries, at least one of which is a party to the Convention. Use of the CMR subjects the contract of carriage to the CMR Convention.

The shipper or forwarder, at the request of the carrier, issues the CMR when the goods are loaded. The form is completed in three copies: one for the shipper, one for the consignee accompanying the goods, and one for the carrier, countersigned as a receipt.

To facilitate international use, the fields of the form are labeled in three different languages, with additional translations on the back. When transporting dangerous goods, additional information is required according to ADR regulations.

The waybill must include the following mandatory information:

• date and place of issue
• sender’s name and address
• carrier and consignee
• place of destination if different from consignee
• nature, weight, quantity and/or number of goods
• customs transit points, if any
• instructions for transportation charges
• classification of dangerous goods according to ADR. 

 Often, especially in full-load transports, the registration details of the means of transport are included. Other data may be added, such as prohibition of transshipment, shipper’s charges, and declared value of the goods. Shipper and carrier may include any other useful or appropriate remarks on the CMR.

You may also be interested in the article Third-party warehousing: a complete guide. 

Documents required for international transport by sea

Among the various transport documents, the ocean bill of lading (also called the Bill of Lading) is used exclusively in sea, river and inland water transportation. 

This document certifies the embarkation of goods from the port of departure to the port of arrival on a specific ship, and is used both for contracts for chartering a ship and for transporting certain goods. The Bill of Lading can serve as a negotiable security, representing the goods and traveling separately from them. It is required to pick up the goods at destination, attests to the taking over of the goods by the carrier or its agent, and proves the existence and contents of the contract of carriage. 

The title holder owns the goods and may transfer such possession. If it shows the freight cost and other charges, it serves as a bordereau for the payment of the freight. It is issued to the shipper by the ocean carrier, the ship’s master or their agents, and its issuance is by the delivery of the “ship’s receipt.”  

Why rely on ISS Palumbo for international logistics 

When it comes to managing international logistics, choosing the right partner can make the difference between a smooth operation and an inefficient supply chain. ISS Palumbo, with its extensive industry experience and expertise, is an excellent choice for your logistics needs.  

Experience and Expertise

ISS Palumbo has decades of experience in the international logistics industry. Our in-depth knowledge of global customs regulations and procedures allows us to offer tailored solutions that ensure compliance and efficiency. Our team of experts is constantly updated on the latest regulations and industry best practices. 

Customized Solutions

We understand that each client has unique needs. Therefore, we offer customized logistics solutions, tailoring our services to your company’s specific needs. Whatever you need, ISS Palumbo can handle every aspect of your supply chain. 

Reliability and Punctuality

Our priority is to ensure that your goods arrive at their destination safely and on time. With our global network of partners and our rigorous attention to detail, we can ensure reliable and smooth logistics operations. On-time delivery is essential to the success of your business, and ISS Palumbo is committed to meeting agreed upon delivery times.

Regulatory Compliance

Navigating the complex landscape of international regulations can be a challenge. ISS Palumbo ensures that all of your shipments comply with the laws and regulations of the countries of origin and destination. This reduces the risk of customs delays and penalties, ensuring a seamless flow of goods.

Relying on ISS Palumbo means choosing a reliable and competent logistics partner that can support your business globally. With our experience, advanced technology and commitment to customer service, we can help you optimize your supply chain and achieve your business goals. 

Contact us → info@iss-palumbo.com