Anyone hiring a haulier should clarify five things in advance: complete shipment data, loading and unloading conditions, dates, documents and insurance of the goods. Because the statutory liability of carriers is limited – under the German Commercial Code (HGB) and the CMR convention to 8.33 special drawing rights, roughly €10 per kilogram. This checklist helps you plan transport safely and without extra charges.
Key facts at a glance
- Give complete dimensions, weight, stackability and type of goods
- Clarify time windows, ramp or tail lift and opening hours in advance
- The shipper is responsible for loading the goods safely for transport (§ 412 HGB)
- Statutory liability is limited – take out cargo insurance for valuable goods
- A CMR consignment note is standard internationally; outside the EU customs documents are added
What details does the haulier need?
Shipment data
- Number and type of packages (e.g. euro pallets, mesh boxes, crates)
- Dimensions and weight per package and total weight
- Stackable yes or no
- Type and value of goods
- Dangerous goods under ADR with UN number, if applicable
- Special requirements: temperature, humidity, shock sensitivity
Loading and unloading point
- Complete addresses and contact persons on site
- Ramp available or tail lift needed?
- Time windows, opening hours, slot booking or delivery notification
- Access restrictions, for example for articulated trucks in city centres
- Pallet exchange agreed or not
Who is responsible for securing the load?
Responsibility is shared. Under § 412 HGB the shipper must load, stow and secure the goods safely for transport – unless otherwise agreed. The carrier is responsible for loading that keeps the vehicle roadworthy, i.e. that the load doesn't make the vehicle unsafe. In addition, German road traffic regulations oblige drivers and vehicle owners to secure loads. In practice: agree in writing in advance who loads and secures, and provide suitable load carriers.
| Task | Shipper / loader | Carrier / driver |
|---|---|---|
| Packaging the goods | Yes | – |
| Loading and securing safely for transport | Yes (§ 412 HGB) | Checks roadworthiness |
| Loading that keeps the vehicle roadworthy | – | Yes |
| Consignment note and accompanying documents | Provides the details | Carries them, confirms handover |
| Visible damage on delivery | Recipient notes it on the consignment note | Driver confirms the note |
How is a haulier liable for damage?
For national transport the carrier is liable under § 431 HGB, for cross-border road transport under Article 23 of the CMR – in both cases generally up to 8.33 special drawing rights (SDR) per kilogram of gross weight. That's roughly €10 per kilogram. An example: for a 500 kg pallet of electronics worth €50,000, the carrier is only liable for around €5,000 in the event of damage. For valuable goods, separate cargo insurance is therefore worthwhile.
Which documents do I need for transport?
- Delivery note: the basis for handing over the goods to the recipient.
- Consignment note: common nationally; for cross-border road transport the CMR consignment note is standard.
- Customs documents: for non-EU countries such as Switzerland or the UK, for example the export declaration.
- Dangerous goods documents: transport document under ADR for dangerous goods.
- Incoterms: define who bears costs and risk – for example DAP or FCA.
How are transport costs made up?
- Distance and route, including tolls – with a CO₂ surcharge since December 2023, from 3.5 tonnes since July 2024.
- Loading metres or weight, whichever is higher.
- Vehicle type: tarpaulin, box body, refrigerated vehicle or tail lift.
- Waiting times: waiting beyond the agreed period is charged as demurrage.
- Surcharges for express, delivery notification, weekends or dangerous goods.
How do you recognise a reliable haulier?
- Licence under the German Road Haulage Act or an EU licence for commercial road haulage
- Proof of carrier's liability insurance
- A transparent quote with all surcharges
- One contact person and reachable dispatch
- Proactive information in case of delays
FA Transport handles part and full loads as well as express direct trips from Düsseldorf – with a quote within 24 hours, one contact person and dispatch around the clock.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need to tell a haulier for a quote?
Number, type, dimensions and weight of the packages, stackability, type and value of goods, loading and unloading address, time windows and special features such as tail lift, temperature control or dangerous goods.
Who is liable for transport damage?
The carrier – but limited to 8.33 special drawing rights per kilogram, under § 431 HGB for national transport and under Article 23 CMR internationally. That's roughly €10 per kilogram. You cover higher values with cargo insurance.
What is a CMR consignment note?
The CMR consignment note is the standard document for cross-border road transport. It documents shipper, recipient, goods and takeover and is the basis for liability under the CMR convention.
Who is responsible for securing the load?
Under § 412 HGB the shipper is responsible for loading safely for transport, the carrier for keeping the vehicle roadworthy. Drivers and vehicle owners are also liable under road traffic law. Who loads and secures should be agreed in writing in advance.
How much does truck transport cost?
It depends on distance, loading metres or weight, tolls, vehicle type and surcharges. You get a binding quote with complete shipment data – at FA Transport usually within 24 hours.
Transport in Düsseldorf & the region?
Free advice and a binding fixed price – usually within 24 hours. Service: Transport
