What Is CMR Insurance?

CMR Insurance is a type of cover which allows hauliers and couriers to legally carry goods within Europe. CMR Insurance ensures goods carriers comply with the CMR Convention, ‘Convention on the Contract for the International Carriage of Goods by Road’, in full, an EU law requiring goods carriers to produce a CMR consignment at customs and when unloading.

Although it is slightly confusing as they are similarly named, CMR Insurance differs from the CMR Convention in that CMR Insurance ensures hauliers and couriers are legally able to transport goods in countries in which the CMR Convention applies. 55 European states have ratified the CMR Convention, so if you’re carrying a load within Europe, you may need CMR Insurance.

CMR Insurance provides a crucial function, similar to Goods in Transit Insurance, by offering coverage against theft and damage for any goods being transported. However, unlike Goods in Transit cover, which is strongly recommended but not compulsory, CMR Insurance is a recommendation for UK couriers and hauliers carrying goods within any of the EU states that have signed up to the CMR Convention. It’s a layer of security that UK couriers and hauliers working solely within the UK do not require.