The CPD Distribution System, which facilitates the temporary importation of private and commercial vehicles, is based on two international conventions: ‘The Customs Convention on the Temporary Importation of Private Road Vehicles’ (signed in New York on 4 June 1954) and ‘The Customs Convention on the Temporary Importation of Commercial Road Vehicles’ (signed in Geneva on 18 May 1956). Hosted by UNECE, the Conventions have 96 Contracting Parties, where the system is implemented and managed by the FIA on behalf of the AIT/FIA CPD network and their Affiliated Members.

The digitalisation of the CPD Distribution System is expected to speed up the border crossing for millions of automobilists around the globe by reducing significantly their administrative burden. Additionally, the exchange of customs information in a secure environment will prevent false submission of customs declarations.

Jean Todt, FIA President, said: “The strengthened partnership between the FIA and UNECE marks our joint commitment to promote a safe and sustainable mobility for all road users worldwide.  The digitalisation of the CPD Distribution System will provide a solution that is needed by customs administrations to help manage risks and reduce border waiting times.”

Olga Algayerova, UNECE Executive Secretary, said: “The 59 United Nations legal instruments on inland transport administered by UNECE provide a common framework for the development of efficient, safe and sustainable transport and mobility. Accelerating the digitalisation of procedures under these tools is helping more and more countries to reap their benefits. UNECE is pleased to strengthen our cooperation with the FIA in this area to further facilitate cross-border goods transport and mobility.”

The CPD e-Distribution System will facilitate safe data exchange between national customs systems according to the provisions of the CPD Convention.

It will also allow customs to manage the data on guarantees and replace the functions of the current CPD. The digitalisation is expected to provide further benefits such as the systematic availability of advanced information that would allow stakeholders to conduct risk assessments prior to the arrival of vehicles.