Begleitpapieren

Begleitpapiere are documents that accompany goods during transport. In German-speaking logistics, they provide information about the shipment, establish entitlement, and support regulatory compliance. While traditionally printed on paper, many are now issued electronically or in hybrid form.

Typical Begleitpapiere include a commercial invoice, packing list, and transport documents such as the CMR consignment note for road traffic, the Sea Waybill or Bill of Lading for sea, and the Air Waybill for air transport. Depending on the shipment, certificates of origin, export declarations, and insurance documents are common, as well as sector-specific certificates (phytosanitary, veterinary, health).

These papers enable customs clearance, determine liability, and provide data on value, origin, classification, weight, and destination. They identify the goods and assist carriers, brokers, and recipients in handling the shipment.

Different modes rely on different primary documents: CMR for road, CIM for rail, Bill of Lading for sea, and Air Waybill for air. Alongside these, the packing list and invoice are routinely included.

Digitalization has led to electronic Begleitpapiere and interoperable data exchanges (EDI), improving speed and traceability while preserving regulatory validity under applicable law.

Non-compliance or missing documents can cause delays, customs refusals, fines, or liability issues. Accurate, timely, and legible documentation is therefore essential in cross-border and domestic shipments.