Quick answer
By road (CMR), apparent damage must be reserved on the consignment note at delivery; non-apparent damage in writing within 7 days (Sundays and public holidays not counted); delay within 21 days; legal action within 1 year (3 years for wilful misconduct). By sea (Hague-Visby), hidden damage must be notified within 3 days and suit brought within 1 year. By air (Montreal), damage must be complained of in writing within 14 days, delay within 21 days, and legal action brought within 2 years. The day of delivery is not counted.
Last updated: 29 October 2026
Deadlines by mode
International road: CMR Convention
| Situation | What to do | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Apparent damage / shortage | Write a general reservation on the CMR at delivery | — |
| Non-apparent damage | Written reservation within 7 days | Sundays and public holidays are not counted; the tool only skips Sundays, so allow for holidays at the place of delivery. |
| Delay | In writing within 21 days of the goods being placed at disposal | — |
| Legal action (time bar) | 1 year | 3 years for wilful misconduct or equivalent default. |
Sea: Hague-Visby Rules
| Situation | What to do | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Apparent damage / shortage | Written notice at delivery | — |
| Non-apparent damage | Written notice within 3 days | — |
| Legal action (time bar) | 1 year | — |
Air: Montreal Convention
| Situation | What to do | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Damage (written complaint) | Within 14 days of receipt | — |
| Delay (written complaint) | Within 21 days of the cargo being placed at disposal | — |
| Legal action | 2 years | — |
The day of delivery is not counted. National law and policy terms may set different periods.
What to do when damage occurs
- 1Protect the cargo from further damage (duty to minimise loss).
- 2Have the damage and reservation written on the delivery document (CMR, B/L, AWB); never sign clean.
- 3Photograph the packaging and the damage; keep the packaging and damaged goods.
- 4Ask the insurer for a surveyor; do not repair or dispose before the survey.
- 5Notify the insurer and agent in writing straight away.
- 6Hold the carrier liable in writing within the deadline (preserve recovery rights).
- 7Collect the documents and send the claim file to the insurer.
The claim file
- Policy or insurance certificate
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- CMR (copy with reservation)
- Bill of lading (B/L)
- Air waybill (AWB)
- Copy of the reservation / notice
- Photographs
- Survey report
- Claim letter
- Letter holding the carrier liable and its reply
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to report hidden damage under CMR?
Seven days in writing, not counting Sundays and public holidays. Apparent damage must be reserved at delivery.
What is the CMR time bar?
One year; three years in the case of wilful misconduct or equivalent default.
What is the deadline under the Montreal Convention?
A written complaint within 14 days of receipt for damage and within 21 days for delay; legal action within 2 years.
What is the deadline for sea cargo damage?
Under the Hague-Visby Rules, written notice within 3 days for non-apparent damage and suit within 1 year.
Should I sign the delivery note clean?
No. Write the damage and your reservation on the CMR, B/L or AWB, photograph the packaging and keep it until the surveyor has seen it.