International road transport is not merely about picking up a load and delivering it to another country. For the process to proceed smoothly and within legal frameworks, certain documents must be prepared accurately and completely.

 

Key Documents Required in International Road Transport:

1. CMR Document (International Consignment Note)

One of the most essential documents for all companies involved in international road transport. It is used for shipments between countries that are parties to the

CMR Convention. It includes details about the sender, carrier, and consignee, as well as the nature of the goods and transport conditions.

Note: The CMR document serves as a contract and guarantees the rights of both the shipper and the carrier.

2. Commercial Invoice and Packing List

These are the foundation of customs procedures and reflect the commercial value and packaging details of the goods.

• Commercial Invoice: Contains detailed information about the sale.
• Packing List: Includes package contents, weight, and dimensions.

3. Customs Declaration and Certificates of Origin

Every cross-border movement of goods must be declared in compliance with national regulations. The customs declaration serves this purpose, while certificates of

origin verify where the goods were produced.

• ATR Certificate: Proves that goods are in free circulation.
• EUR.1 Certificate: Used in trade with countries that have signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Turkey, confirming the goods originate from Turkey.

Certificate of Origin: Required when origin-based customs tariffs apply.

4. TIR Carnet or NCTS Guarantee

These documents enable goods to transit through countries without paying customs duties en route.

• TIR Carnet: Used in countries that are parties to the TIR system.
• NCTS (New Computerised Transit System): An integrated guarantee system used within the EU.

5. Transit Permits (Transport Quotas)

Every country imposes certain permit requirements based on bilateral or multilateral quotas.

• Bilateral Permit: Used for direct transportation between Turkey and the destination country.
• Transit Permit: Required when passing through third countries.
• Third-Country Permit: Needed when transporting goods between two countries other than Turkey.

Note: These permits are limited in number. Delayed or incorrect applications can lead to serious delays.

6. Vehicle and Driver Documents

To ensure legal and safe transport, both vehicle and driver-related documents must be available:

• Vehicle Registration & Technical Documents: Provide technical specs and official registration.
• Green Card Insurance: International motor insurance.
• SRC 1 Certificate: For international passenger transport.
• SRC 3 Certificate: Mandatory for international freight drivers.
• Psychotechnical Report: Assesses cognitive and physical competencies such as reflexes, perception, and coordination.
• Digital Tachograph Card: Records driving and rest periods.
• AETR Compliance Records: Ensure compliance with international driver work/rest regulations.

7. Transport Authorization Certificates

Issued by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, based on the scope of the company’s operations.

• C2 Certificate: For companies engaged in international commercial freight transport.
• L2 Certificate: For logistics service providers.

8. Special Cargo Documents

Depending on the nature of the cargo, additional documents may be required:

• ADR Certificate: For the transportation of dangerous goods; required for both vehicle and driver.
• Health / Phytosanitary / Veterinary Certificates: For live animals, food, or agricultural products.
• Import/Export Licenses: For certain goods, obtained from the Ministry of Trade or relevant authorities.

 

Why Is It Crucial to Prepare Documents Completely and On Time?

Incomplete or incorrect documentation can result in:

• Delays in customs procedures and extended waiting times at border crossings.
• Fines, transport bans, or document revocations imposed by authorities.
• Late deliveries, leading to customer dissatisfaction and loss of trust.
• Unplanned disruptions in the logistics process.

Therefore, each document plays a critical role in international road transport. A professionally managed documentation process minimizes both legal and operational risks.