Consignment note – what is this document? Types and function

A waybill is a key document in both international and domestic freight transport, playing a crucial role in the shipping process. It serves as proof of the transportation contract between the sender and the carrier, and also acts as confirmation that the goods have been accepted for transport. In practice, it functions as a tracking tool, a safeguard for the rights of the carrier and the shipper, and a control instrument that allows monitoring of the shipment and the resolution of any claims in case of damage, loss, or delays in delivery.

Essentially, a waybill is a document issued by the sender or the carrier when goods are handed over for transport. It serves as proof that the carrier has accepted a certain quantity of goods in a specified condition for delivery. This document is critical in transportation, as it protects the interests of both the sender and the carrier. The sender has proof that the goods were dispatched in proper condition, while the carrier holds evidence that they accepted the goods for transport and committed to delivering them to the recipient.

Types of Waybills

There are several types of waybills used in freight transport, depending on the mode of transportation. The most well-known and commonly used are: the international road waybill (CMR), the railway waybill (CIM), the air waybill (AWB), and the sea bill of lading (B/L).

The international road waybill, known as the CMR (Convention relative au contrat de transport international de marchandises par route), is used for road transport on international routes. This document is regulated by the CMR Convention, signed in Geneva in 1956, and is now in force in many countries worldwide, including Poland. The CMR is used for both intra-European Union shipments and those outside the EU.

The railway waybill, or CIM (Convention internationale concernant le transport des marchandises par chemin de fer), is mandatory for international rail freight transport. This document must accompany every shipment of goods transported by train, according to international regulations. It contains information about the goods, the sender, the carrier, the destination, and other essential details necessary for the transport.

The air waybill (AWB) is used in air transport and serves a similar purpose to the CMR in road transport. The AWB is proof of the transportation contract between the carrier and the sender, as well as confirmation that the carrier has accepted the goods for transport. It includes detailed information about the shipment, such as the sender’s and recipient’s details, flight information, the weight of the goods, and the nature of the cargo.

The bill of lading (B/L) is a document used in maritime transport that serves multiple functions. Primarily, it is evidence of the transportation contract and confirms that the goods have been taken on board the ship. The bill of lading can also be a negotiable document, meaning it acts as a title document—the holder of the bill has the right to take possession of the goods.

Functions of a Waybill

A waybill performs several important functions. First and foremost, it serves as evidence of the transportation contract. This contract is made between the sender and the carrier and involves the transport of goods from the point of origin to the destination. With the waybill, both the sender and the carrier have proof that such a contract was agreed upon, with its terms clearly outlined.

Another function of the waybill is to document the receipt of goods for transport. The waybill serves as proof that the carrier accepted the goods in a specific condition and quantity, which is crucial in the event of claims. If goods are damaged during transport, the waybill can help determine whether the damage occurred before, during, or after the carrier accepted the goods.

The waybill is also a control document. Goods transported internationally may be subject to various inspections, such as customs checks. In such cases, the waybill is a critical document that customs authorities and other agencies use to verify that the transported goods match the declarations made in the document.

Lastly, the waybill provides a basis for claims in cases of delays, damage, or loss of the goods. In international transport, the carrier is responsible for the goods from the moment they accept them until they are delivered to the recipient. The waybill serves as evidence that the goods were accepted in a particular condition, and if no objections were raised at that stage, the carrier can be held liable for any damages.

Examples of Waybill Use

Example 1: A manufacturing company in Poland sends a batch of goods to its customer in Germany. For the purposes of international road transport, the company must fill out an international road waybill (CMR). This document includes details about the sender, the recipient, the type of goods, their quantity, and the transport conditions. Once the carrier collects the goods, they sign the waybill, confirming their receipt in the specified condition and quantity. In the event of problems, such as delivery delays or damage to the goods, both parties can refer to the information in the waybill to determine when and where the issue occurred and who is responsible.

Example 2: A company exporting electronics from Japan to the United States uses maritime transport. When the goods are loaded onto the ship, the carrier issues a bill of lading. This document not only confirms that the goods were accepted for transport but also acts as a title document, meaning it can be transferred to another party who can claim the goods upon arrival. In the event of the goods being lost at sea, the bill of lading serves as the basis for claiming compensation from the carrier.
Conclusion

The waybill is an essential document in freight transport, serving multiple critical functions. It is proof of the transportation contract, confirmation of the receipt of goods for transport, a control tool, and the foundation for claims in cases of damage, delays, or loss. Different types of waybills, such as the CMR, CIM, AWB, and bill of lading, are used depending on the mode of transport, but they all aim to protect the interests of both the sender and the carrier. Through the use of waybills, freight transport can proceed smoothly and in compliance with regulations, while in case of issues, both parties have a legal document to support their claims. The examples of waybill usage in international transport illustrate the vital role they play in day-to-day logistics operations, ensuring the efficiency and safety of freight shipments in the global market.

To obtain more information, please contact the Polish carrier BIAL-MICH.