Free CMR Template – Download or Create Online
Looking for a free CMR template to download? You’re in the right place. Whether you need a PDF, Word, or Excel format, this guide covers all your options for creating CMR consignment notes.
But before you download a static template, consider this: there’s a faster, more reliable way to create CMR documents. Let’s explore both options.
Option 1: Download CMR Templates
PDF Template (Print & Fill)
A printable PDF template for manual completion.
Best for:
- One-off shipments
- Companies without digital systems
- Backup copies
Limitations:
- Must be filled by hand
- No error checking
- Difficult to archive
- Not eCMR compliant
Word Template (Editable)
An editable Word document you can type into.
Best for:
- Occasional use
- Custom formatting needs
- Offline work
Limitations:
- No field validation
- Manual data entry each time
- Version control issues
- Not eCMR compliant
Excel Template (Calculated)
A spreadsheet with basic formulas for totals.
Best for:
- Multiple shipments to same destinations
- Basic automation
- Cost tracking
Limitations:
- Formatting issues when printing
- No cloud backup
- Not eCMR compliant
- Complex to maintain
Option 2: Create CMR Online (Recommended)
Instead of downloading templates, use CMR Management to create professional CMR documents in minutes.
Why Online is Better Than Templates
| Feature | Downloaded Template | CMR Online Tool |
|---|---|---|
| Time to complete | 15-20 minutes | 3-5 minutes |
| Error checking | None | Automatic validation |
| Saved data | No | Yes – addresses, goods |
| Cloud archive | No | Yes – find any document |
| eCMR 2026 ready | No | Yes |
| Mobile friendly | No | Yes |
| Multi-language | No | 15+ languages |
| Cost | Free | Free (up to 5/month) |
How It Works
1. Sign up free – No credit card required 2. Enter details – Smart form guides you 3. Generate PDF – Download or print instantly 4. Archive automatically – Find documents anytime
What Should a CMR Template Include?
Whether you use a template or online tool, every CMR must contain these 24 standard fields:
Sender Section (Fields 1-15)
| Field | Description | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sender name & address | ✅ Yes |
| 2 | Consignee name & address | ✅ Yes |
| 3 | Place of delivery | ✅ Yes |
| 4 | Place & date of taking over | ✅ Yes |
| 5 | Annexed documents | Recommended |
| 6 | Marks & numbers | Recommended |
| 7 | Number of packages | ✅ Yes |
| 8 | Method of packing | Recommended |
| 9 | Nature of goods | ✅ Yes |
| 10 | Statistical number | For customs |
| 11 | Gross weight (kg) | ✅ Yes |
| 12 | Volume (m³) | Recommended |
| 13 | Sender’s instructions | As needed |
| 14 | Customs instructions | For non-EU |
| 15 | Carriage charges | Recommended |
Carrier Section (Fields 16-21)
| Field | Description | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| 16 | Carrier details | ✅ Yes |
| 17 | Successive carriers | If applicable |
| 18 | Carrier’s reservations | Critical! |
| 19 | Special agreements | As needed |
| 20 | To be paid | Recommended |
| 21 | Established at | ✅ Yes |
Signatures (Fields 22-24)
| Field | Description | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| 22 | Sender signature | ✅ Yes |
| 23 | Carrier signature | ✅ Yes |
| 24 | Consignee signature | ✅ Yes (on delivery) |
For a complete guide on filling each field, see How to Fill a CMR Form.
eCMR 2026: Why Templates Won’t Work
Starting mid-2026, EU authorities must accept electronic CMR documents under the eFTI regulation. This means:
- Paper templates become outdated – Digital acceptance is mandatory
- Electronic signatures required – Not possible with Word/PDF
- Data interoperability needed – Templates can’t connect to systems
- Audit trails expected – No tracking with static files
Future-proof your business: Use a digital CMR solution now to be ready for eCMR requirements.
→ Get eCMR ready with CMR Management
Who Needs CMR Templates?
Freight Forwarders
Create multiple CMRs daily for various clients. An online tool with saved templates is far more efficient than manual forms.
Exporters & Importers
Document international shipments with proper customs information. Online tools validate required fields automatically.
Haulage Companies
Drivers need quick access to CMR documents. Mobile-friendly online tools work better than paper templates.
Small Businesses
Occasional international shipments don’t justify complex software. A free online plan covers most needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CMR template really free?
Yes, CMR templates are freely available as they’re standardized documents under the CMR Convention. Our online tool also offers a free plan with up to 5 CMR documents per month.
What format is best for CMR templates?
For static templates, PDF is best for printing, Word for editing. However, an online tool is more efficient as it validates data and saves information for reuse.
Can I use an English CMR template for international transport?
Yes, there’s no language requirement for CMR documents. However, it’s recommended to use bilingual forms (English + destination country language) to avoid misunderstandings.
How many copies of the CMR do I need?
Traditionally 4 copies: sender, consignee, carrier, and administrative. With electronic CMR (eCMR), physical copies are no longer necessary.
Is a downloaded CMR template legally valid?
Yes, any CMR document following the standard format is legally valid under the CMR Convention. However, it must be properly completed and signed by all parties.
Still Want to Download a Template?
If you prefer a traditional template, here’s what to look for:
Essential features:
- All 24 fields clearly labeled
- Adequate space for addresses and goods description
- Clear signature areas
- Multiple copy capability (if printing)
Red flags to avoid:
- Templates requiring payment for basic formats
- Non-standard field layouts
- Missing required fields
- Outdated formats
The Smarter Choice: Go Digital
Before spending time with manual templates, try our online tool:
✅ Free – Up to 5 documents/month at no cost
✅ Fast – Create a CMR in under 5 minutes
✅ Accurate – Automatic field validation
✅ Saved – Your data stored for reuse
✅ Archived – Cloud storage for all documents
✅ Ready – Compliant with eCMR 2026
Once you have the template, follow our guide to filling in your CMR form online.