Abstract:

The aim of the article is to present the origins of the CIM/SMGS consignment note and to analyze the changes in its use. It presents the latest transport data (2016-2020), showing the dynamics of using this solution across the external border of the EU in forwarding for Russia and Ukraine. It also indicates possible reasons for the dynamics of changes in its popularity. Article refers to the use of one of the functional unification tools in the field of freight transport between the European Union and third countries. Consignment note CIM/SMGS combines the required two different legal orders into one single transport document that may be used for wagonload services and for combined transport. It avoid reissuing of transport documents on EU external border and by doing so to simplify customs clearance – the authorities from the European Free Trade Association customs area officially recognized it for use as transit declaration. The CIM/SMGS consignment note is significant for reducing delays in cross-border rail transport. The article uses the analysis of statistical data, applies the theoretical and empirical perspective.