A missing Carta Porte or SICT permit puts the vehicle’s continued operation at risk.

The most important and highest-risk documents for freight transport.

Inspectionexpires in 4 daysExpiring soon

Federal license Bexpires in 7 daysExpiring soon

Cargo insurance policy2027-02Current

Fictional data. Illustrative document map.

Where the risk lies

CRITICAL

Consignment notes (Carta Porte supplement)

The CFDI documenting lawful possession and presence of goods in transit. Transport without it creates a presumption of smuggling.

Route

OPERATIONS

Federal freight transport permits (SICT, formerly SCT)

Issued by SICT for an indefinite term. Without a permit, the vehicle can be removed from service.

Origin

VALIDITY

Federal driver’s licenses

Current and in the correct category: B or C for freight; E for double trailers and hazardous materials. Category E is renewed every two years; the others every four.

Route

VALIDITY

Physical, mechanical and emissions inspection certificates

Required each applicable period. Missing certificates can result in fines, and vehicles lacking minimum safety conditions can be removed from service.

Origin

12 critical documents, grouped by the risk they address

Alongside the corporate foundation every company needs in order: incorporation deed and bylaws, corporate books and notarial powers of attorney.

Fictional data. Illustrative document map.

Fleet Documentation

Vehicle Registration Cards and PlatesBasic authorization for road use.
Ownership Titles or Lease AgreementsMany large fleets are leased. Managing contract end dates is essential to fleet renewal.
Federal Freight Transport Permits (SICT, formerly SCT)Issued by SICT for an indefinite term. Without a permit, the vehicle can be removed from service.
Physical, Mechanical and Emissions Inspection CertificatesPhysical and mechanical inspections under NOM-068-SCT-2-2014 are required each applicable period, with a plate-based schedule. Emissions inspections follow the NOM-045-SEMARNAT-2017 schedule. Missing certificates can result in fines, and vehicles lacking minimum safety conditions can be removed from service.

Insurance and Surety Bonds

Civil Liability Insurance PoliciesMandatory, with specific coverage for the cargo type, including hazardous materials or perishables.
Cargo InsuranceProtects third-party goods. The legal team must ensure that the client contract matches the insurance coverage.

Personnel Records

Federal Driver’s LicensesCurrent and in the correct category: B or C for freight; E for double trailers and hazardous materials. Category E is renewed every two years and the others every four. Permit holders must verify that each driver holds a current license.
Psychophysical Fitness CertificatesResults of the comprehensive psychophysical examination performed by SICT or an authorized third party. A current certificate is required to issue or renew a federal license.
Training CertificatesEvidence that the driver is qualified to operate heavy equipment.

Contracts and Logistics Operations

Consignment Notes (Carta Porte Supplement)The CFDI documenting lawful possession and presence of goods in transit. Transport without it creates a presumption of smuggling under Article 103 of the Federal Tax Code.
Transport Services AgreementsWith specific delivery deadlines, penalties and liability limits.
Shared Responsibility AgreementsWhen other carriers are subcontracted.

What is the Carta Porte, and why is it critical in transport?

The Carta Porte supplement is the CFDI documenting lawful possession and presence of goods during transport within Mexico. Since 2022, transporting goods without it creates a presumption of smuggling under Article 103, section XXII of the Federal Tax Code, in addition to fines for failing to issue or carry it.