Member States can now begin setting up their IT systems in preparation for paperless freight transport, as the first eFTI implementing and delegated acts entered into force today. The new acts specify how the IT systems should be designed, and the data to be exchanged.
The eFTI Regulation is an important step in the digital transformation of freight transport across the European Union. It creates the conditions for a shift from paper-based document exchanges to standardised electronic data on cargo transport for all transport modes.
As of July 2027, this data may be shared via secure, eFTI-certified IT platforms that can be easily integrated into companies’ existing data management systems. The companies will then be able to share standardised freight transport data with the authorities and business partners.
This digital shift will reduce administrative burden for transport operators and national authorities, increase data security, and facilitate compliance with EU and national freight regulations.
Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas said: "Europe’s freight transport sector is preparing for the future. The introduction of Electronic Freight Transport Information is a big step forward, driving the digital transformation of our transport systems and improving efficiency. It could save the EU transport and logistics sector up to €1 billion per year. By creating common standards and making systems work together, eFTI paves the way for fully paperless transport in the EU."
Next steps
As of January 2025: Based on the implementation specifications provided in these first eFTI implementing and delegated acts, Member States may start developing the IT systems necessary to allow authorities to check eFTI compliant transport information.
By September 2025: The Commission plans to adopt the remaining eFTI implementing specifications. These will provide detailed functional and technical requirements for the IT systems and services to be used by businesses (eFTI platforms and eFTI service providers) and the rules for their certification.
As of January 2026: eFTI platforms and service providers can start preparing for operations. Member States authorities may start accepting data stored on certified eFTI platforms for inspection.
As of 9 July 2027: The eFTI Regulation will apply in full. Member State authorities must accept information shared electronically by operators via certified eFTI platforms.
For More Information
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/2025 of 15 July 2024 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2020/1056 by amending its Annex I Part B
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2024/2024 of 26 July 2024 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2020/1056 by establishing the eFTI common data set and eFTI data subsets
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/1942 of 5 July 2024 laying down common procedures and detailed rules for accessing and processing electronic freight transport information by competent authorities in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2020/1056 of the European Parliament and of the Council
Details
- Publication date
- 9 January 2025
- Author
- Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport