CMNI Budapest Convention (2001)
12 July 2026 · EN · NL · DE · FR
Summary
The Budapest Convention (CMNI, 2001) governs the contract for the carriage of goods by inland waterway. It covers the transport document, the carrier's liability regime including navigational fault defences, and claim periods for barge transport on European rivers and canals such as the Rhine and the Danube.
Frequently asked questions
What is the CMNI Budapest Convention?
The CMNI Budapest Convention (2001) is the legal instrument governing contracts for the carriage of goods by inland waterway. It sets out rules on the transport document, the carrier's liability, and claim periods, providing a uniform legal framework for barge transport across European inland waterways.
Where does the CMNI Convention apply?
It applies to contracts for the carriage of goods by inland waterway, covering barge transport on European rivers and canals such as the Rhine and the Danube. It is the main reference instrument for inland navigation contracts in this region.
How does CMNI treat carrier liability?
CMNI establishes a liability regime for the carrier, including specific defences based on navigational fault. This means a carrier may be exempted from liability in certain situations linked to errors in navigating the vessel, distinguishing it from liability regimes in other transport modes.
What does CMNI say about claim periods and the transport document?
The Convention covers the transport document used in inland waterway carriage and sets claim periods within which parties must raise complaints about the transport. These provisions give shippers and carriers clarity on documentation requirements and deadlines for disputes.
Official sources
- Official text EN (CCNR, PDF) ↗ · ccr-zkr.org
- Conventions overview (CCNR) ↗ · www.ccr-zkr.org