A significant step towards the modernization of international rail transport was the successful completion of the testing phase of the digital prototype of the electronic CIM/SMGS consignment note (eCIM/SMGS CN). This joint effort marks a major milestone in the digitization of cargo documentation, aimed at improving operational efficiency and cross-border interoperability.
The pilot project, supported by the Organization for Cooperation between Railways (OSJD), the International Railway Transport Committee (CIT), the International Union of Railways (UIC) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), brought together railway operators from Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Turkey and Ukraine . From 3 to 7 June 2024, these stakeholders conducted the first virtual testing of the eCIM/SMGS CN digital prototype.
According to the Memorandum of Understanding signed on 22 May 2023, the participating railway operators have committed to promote electronic consignment notes on selected TRACECA routes. The digital prototype, aligned to global UN/CEFACT standards and the Multimodal Transport Data Reference Model (MMT RDM), promises seamless integration and compliance, increased accuracy and automation in international rail logistics.
The successful pilot testing phase involved the exchange of 20 e-way bills between participating operators. At this stage, the prototype’s ability to optimize data exchange and processing was demonstrated, paving the way for increased efficiency and reduced errors in cargo documentation. Further refinement and expansion of the digital prototype is expected, with plans for further testing and consultation throughout 2024 to achieve widespread adoption and integration into international rail operations.