CMR and AVC Transport Conditions
CMR and AVC conditions are the general terms and conditions used for international and domestic road transport. CMR conditions apply to international transport, while AVC conditions apply to domestic transport.
For all road transport within the Netherlands, we apply the General Transport Conditions 2002 (AVC 2002). These conditions are standard in the Dutch transport sector and define the rights and obligations of both carrier and client.
For international road transport, CMR conditions apply, based on the CMR Convention. This convention sets out, among other things, the carrier’s liability.
What are CMR conditions?
CMR conditions are international rules and agreements for the carriage of goods by road, established by the United Nations. Almost all European member states have signed the CMR, as well as several countries in Africa and Asia.
CMR stands for “Convention relative au contrat de transport international de marchandises par route.” For international transport, a CMR consignment note is required. The terms in this consignment note are accepted by all countries that have signed the CMR.
Why are AVC conditions important for transport?
Although many aspects of commercial transport are regulated by law, AVC conditions provide more detailed provisions and serve as a supplement to legal requirements. These include rules on freight payment, loading and overloading, storage, and cash-on-delivery shipments. Fixed compensation for damages is also an important part of AVC conditions in cases of damage during transport or delays.
AVC Consignment Note
A consignment note forms the agreement between the parties involved in transport: the carrier, the transporter, and the consignee. It is mandatory because it serves as proof that the goods have been received by the carrier and delivered to the consignee. If a transporter does not carry the consignment note, this can result in a fine. There is a standard AVC consignment note that complies with AVC conditions and can be used for all domestic transport.
How important is AVC?
AVC plays a leading role in the Netherlands when disputes arise. The AVC conditions provide clarity and are widely accepted throughout the transport sector. This demonstrates their importance. Insurers also include AVC conditions in their policy terms.
The AVC Conditions and the CMR Convention
Would you like to learn more about AVC or CMR conditions? You can find the relevant documents below:
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