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On 28 August, CLECAT’s Digitalisation Working Group convened to review the latest developments in the digitalisation of freight transport, with a strong focus on the implementation of the eFTI Regulation (EU) 2020/1056. The logistics industry has consistently supported the Regulation’s objective to replace paper-based compliance documents with electronic data. This shift is recognised as an essential step in the digital transition of the transport sector, promising to simplify business-to-authority communication and, in the longer term, also facilitate business-to-business data exchange. Such progress can reduce paperwork, improve transparency, and enhance the efficiency of supply chains.

At the same time, members reiterated their concerns about the framework currently being developed. With four legislative acts still pending – two Implementing Acts and two Delegated Acts – there is growing uncertainty as to whether the conceptual model is sufficiently practical and whether the deadline of July 2027 remains realistic. National administrations must be ready with fully operational eFTI gates by this date, but questions remain about their preparedness. For economic operators, the lack of finalised specifications means that no real work can yet begin on building the required connections. Strategic and financial decisions will take time once the rules are clear, and the timeframe risks being too short for effective implementation.

The draft framework also raises operational challenges. It is not yet clear how eFTI will integrate into day-to-day logistics processes, particularly for multimodal and international supply chains where customs and other systems remain outside its scope. Without greater interoperability, freight forwarders could be left with parallel processes that undermine efficiency. CLECAT’s recent submission to the Commission consultation on the draft Implementing Regulation highlighted the importance of seamless links between existing business-to-business platforms and eFTI systems, as well as clarity on how updates in B2B environments will synchronise in real time with eFTI datasets. The submission also called for clearer governance structures, earlier and more accessible guidance, and practical tools to help SMEs and drivers integrate eFTI into their operations.

The Working Group also reviewed progress on the e-CMR, where the UNECE Group of Experts reached a consensus on the regulatory framework in June. Formal approval is expected in October 2025, paving the way for interoperable, market-ready e-CMR solutions.