What is the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS)?
The EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) is the European Union’s core mechanism for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and accelerating the transition to a low‑carbon economy. The system is based on a cap‑and‑trade model, where a maximum level of emissions is set and companies must hold emission allowances for every tonne of CO₂ equivalent they emit. As the emissions cap is gradually reduced, allowances become scarcer and more expensive, turning carbon emissions into a tangible cost factor.
Since 1 January 2024, the EU ETS has been extended to maritime transport, making shipping emissions subject to carbon pricing. This applies to vessels calling at EU ports, regardless of flag. Emissions on intra‑EU voyages are fully covered, while emissions on voyages between the EU and non‑EU ports are partially included. In practice, shipping lines pass these costs on through EU ETS surcharges, which now appear as a permanent element in ocean freight pricing.
For importers, exporters and cargo owners, the EU ETS is no longer a distant policy initiative. It directly affects freight rates, cost forecasting and commercial negotiations across international supply chains.
The connection between EU ETS and CBAM
The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is closely linked to the EU ETS and uses the same carbon pricing logic. While the EU ETS focuses on emissions generated within the EU — including emissions from maritime transport — CBAM addresses carbon emissions embedded in goods imported into the European Union.
CBAM was designed to prevent carbon leakage, ensuring that non‑EU producers face a comparable carbon cost to EU manufacturers. The price of CBAM certificates is directly tied to the EU ETS allowance price, making both systems financially interconnected. As free EU ETS allowances are phased out, CBAM is introduced in parallel to maintain a level playing field.
From 1 January 2026, CBAM moves from a transitional reporting phase into a system with direct financial obligations. As a result, carbon pricing becomes an integral part of not only production and trade, but also logistics planning and landed cost calculations.
The impact on international logistics and supply chains
The combined effect of EU ETS and CBAM is a structural shift in global trade and logistics. Ocean freight costs are increasingly influenced by emissions pricing, with ETS surcharges varying by route, vessel type and carrier. At the same time, CBAM affects the total import cost of carbon‑intensive goods entering the EU.
This creates additional complexity for businesses that rely on international transport. Budgeting becomes more challenging, cost transparency is under pressure and customers increasingly demand clear explanations for carbon‑related charges. Logistics is no longer just about transit times and rates, but also about regulatory awareness and carbon cost management.
How Koring Freight Forwarders supports your business
Koring Freight Forwarders helps customers navigate the impact of EU ETS and CBAM by translating complex climate regulations into clear, commercially relevant logistics solutions. We support businesses in understanding how carbon pricing affects freight costs today and how it will shape logistics decisions in the years ahead.
We provide clarity on EU ETS surcharges, explaining why these charges differ per trade lane and carrier, and how they are influenced by emissions exposure. This insight helps customers improve cost forecasting, avoid unexpected invoice discrepancies and maintain control over freight budgets.
Koring also advises on carrier selection and routing strategies in a market where carbon pricing increasingly influences transport costs. By considering ETS exposure alongside traditional factors such as reliability and transit time, we help customers strike a balance between cost efficiency and sustainability.
As a freight forwarder with a strong focus on regulatory developments, Koring acts as a single point of contact for questions related to EU ETS, CBAM and related initiatives such as FuelEU Maritime. We provide forward‑looking guidance without unnecessary technical complexity, allowing customers to focus on their core business while staying prepared for regulatory change.
In addition, Koring supports customers in external and internal communication. As ETS‑related costs become more visible, clear explanations toward customers, sales teams and stakeholders are essential. We help ensure that carbon‑related freight costs can be communicated professionally, transparently and confidently. More information? Contact sales@koring.nl
