The European Union Emissions Trading System (EU-ETS) has gone from being an environmental concept to becoming a fixed and unavoidable cost within the logistics chain.
From October 1, 2025, carriers are required to offset 70% of their emissions (up from 40% in 2024).
This cost is calculated using a reference value of €71.07/EUA and an exchange rate of 1.16 USD/EUR, and is applied transparently to each route.
Impact by container type
- Far East → Northern Europe route: €33/TEU DRY vs €79/TEU Reefer
- East Coast North America → Southern Europe: €58/TEU DRY vs €108/TEU Reefer
Refrigerated transport is the most affected, due to its higher energy consumption and emissions.
Consequences for competitiveness
The EU-ETS introduces an immediate disadvantage for European exporters compared to competitors from countries without this regulation. Furthermore, it is no longer a negotiable surcharge like the BAF: it is now a fixed regulatory cost that must be included in the logistics budget.
Recommendations from AGC
- Audit ETS surcharges. Verify that the rates applied by carriers and freight forwarders match the officially published rates.
- Provide independent quotes. Separate the ETS from the base freight rate for a realistic total cost estimate.
- Evaluate more sustainable options. Prioritize shipping lines investing in alternative fuels; in the medium term, fewer emissions mean lower ETS.
The ETS is not a passing trend, but a new cost framework that demands transparency, control and long-term strategic vision.
