eFTI: One step closer towards the digitization of European transport

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This month, for our #BlueInnovation feature, we thought we would look at Electronic Freight Transport Information – or eFTI for short. The world of transport and logistics is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements and regulatory changes. In this landscape, eFTI has emerged as a pivotal innovation, reshaping how freight information is shared and managed across Europe. eFTI has the potential to being transformative, promising to streamline processes, enhance transparency, and improve efficiency in the transport sector. As the European Union moves towards more sustainable and digitised transport systems, understanding eFTI becomes crucial for professionals navigating the intermodal, road, air, and rail transport sectors (excluding maritime). This is why we chose to shine a spotlight on the subject.

Understanding eFTI

What is eFTI? The Electronic Freight Transport Information is a European Regulation (eFTI) regulation establishes a legal framework for the exchange of regulatory information related to the transport of goods. It facilitates economic operators, such as companies involved in freight transport and logistics, to share information in an electronic format with judicial authorities. This applies to the transport of goods by road, rail, inland waterway, or air within the European Union. Officially known as Regulation 2020/1056, it was enacted on August 20, 2020 following the recmmeondations of experts in the DTLF group (Data Transport and Logistics Forum). It will be fully applicable and enter into force on August 21, 2024

eFTI represents a significant leap in managing and sharing freight data. At its core, it is a digital system designed to replace paper-based processes in freight transport with electronic alternatives. This shift is not merely about changing the medium of information exchange but also about enhancing the quality, accessibility, and reliability of freight data. “The eFTI Regulation may affect several EU regulations, such as those on combined transport, road cabotage, waste shipment, dangerous goods, aviation safety and rail interoperability, among others” (PierNext, Port de Barcelona).

Traditionally, freight transport information has been heavily reliant on paper documents – a method that, while familiar, is fraught with inefficiencies. Paper documents are easily misplaced, can be slow to process, and often lead to delays and increased administrative burdens. eFTI, by contrast, introduces a streamlined, digital approach. Information is stored and shared electronically, enabling real-time updates, greater transparency, and faster decision-making processes. This digital transformation aligns with broader EU efforts to modernize the transport sector, making it more resilient and efficient.

One of the key technological aspects of eFTI is its interoperability. The system is designed to work seamlessly across various platforms and stakeholders, including transport companies, logistics providers, and regulatory bodies. This compatibility ensures that eFTI can be integrated into existing infrastructures with minimal disruption, facilitating a smoother transition from traditional methods.

Implications for European Transport Professionals

The implementation of eFTI within the European Union carries significant implications for transport professionals. These implications include:

  • Regulatory Compliance: Transport professionals must familiarize themselves with regulations mandating the use of eFTI systems to ensure compliance. This includes understanding the specific data formats required, data sharing protocols, and privacy considerations under EU law. Non-compliance could result in legal repercussions and operational delays.
  • Operational Efficiency: Instant accessibility of data reduces waiting times and speeds up the overall transport process. For logistics companies, this means faster turnaround times and the potential for increased profitability. It also allows for better tracking of goods, improving supply chain visibility and reliability.
  • Training: Transport companies will need get familiarised with the necessary technology and train their staff to adapt to this new system. The challenging aspect of this innovation is that its implementation requires multi-stakeholders agreement to replace the paper documents by electronic data sets. This is why the involvement of governments is critical in its implementation – not only to accept the electronic documents (compulsory as from August 25), but to promote them among the private sector (and potentially even making them compulsory).

 eFTI’s Role in the Maritime Transport Context

The eFTI regulation, due to be fully implemented by August 2024, will streamline information exchange across European transport sectors, except for maritime transport, which is regulated separately by the European Maritime Single Window environment Regulation (EMSWe). While eFTI integrates road, rail, and inland waterway data systems, the EMSWe specifically caters to maritime affairs.

Nevertheless, ports, as multimodal hubs, will still experience indirect impacts from eFTI. Improvements in terrestrial transport data flow could lead to more efficient maritime logistics, particularly in port operations where various transport modes intersect. Professionals in the maritime sector must navigate the EMSWe while acknowledging the complementary role of eFTI within the larger transport ecosystem. The alignment of these digital initiatives is pivotal for advancing a unified, efficient EU transport network.

Concluding thoughts

The eFTI initiative represents more than a mere change in regulation; it is a significant step toward creating a transport ecosystem that is more digital, efficient, and transparent—reflecting the broader shift toward digital transformation in various sectors. It is essential to understand that the eFTI regulation is not just a recommended standard but rather a foundational step in the standardization of digital information across Europe.

Adoption of the eFTI framework by companies as soon as possible is advantageous, as it will substantially alter operational methodologies within the logistics sector. The regulatory framework has been established, and key implementation dates are on the horizon:

  • August 24, 2024: eFTI platforms are eligible to begin their certification process.
  • August 26, 2024: Member State authorities are mandated to start accepting eFTI data.
  • February 29, 2025: The rule mandating the use of eFTI for the private sector will be reconsidered.

In the interim, private entities are encouraged to adopt eFTI protocols, and it is within the purview of individual Member States to enforce eFTI-related obligations within their jurisdictions.

Join us in shaping the future of transport!

We’ve done our research – so should you! Check out our sources below to delve more deeply into the topic:

SOURCES

 

Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport Pioneers Advanced Customs Procedures with Executive Training Success

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This Tuesday January 30th 2024, the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport has successfully completed the specialized course, “Executive Strategy for Customs: Tools, procedures and compliance for a risk reduction in Customs Procedures.” The course, conducted in Spanish, was uniquely designed to meet the intricate needs of international trade and customs procedures. Over an intensive two-week period, the programme bridged theoretical knowledge with practical applications. It drew a spectrum of professionals from various respected firms, including KH LLOREDA, S.A., CMA CGM IBERICA, GRIMALDI LOGISTICA ESPAÑA SL, and Adidas, to name a few. This helped foster an environment where shared knowledge and experiences enriched the learning process.

Tailored to empower professionals, the course’s curriculum was meticulously crafted to analyse the various customs elements involved in international trade processes, acquaint participants with the latest IT tools, and streamline operational modalities. It strategically focused on promoting operational compliance and minimizing customs risks, addressing the complexities of customs operations in the contemporary regulatory landscape. More specifically, it aimed to:

  • Provide a comprehensive analysis of the customs elements integral to global commerce.
  • Equip professionals with advanced informatic tools and knowledge of operational procedures to effectively manage customs risks.
  • Instil a robust compliance framework within customs operations, enhancing the efficiency and legal integrity of trade practices.

During the training, participants could apply what they learned in real-world scenarios due to the practical workshops which offered hands-on experience with visits to the PIF (Point of Inspection at the Border), container inspection workshops, scanner inspections, terminal operations, and customs visits. These workshops were engineered to mirror the realities professionals face, providing them with the acumen to navigate customs with greater confidence and expertise; a testament to the course’s practical relevance and immediate impact on professional standards.

The instructional team was composed of esteemed industry professionals and customs officials, ensuring the teachings were grounded in current practices and real-world demands. The educators brought with them a wealth of knowledge from their extensive experience within the sector, contributing to a curriculum that was both relevant and authoritative. Their expertise, coupled with the course’s interactive elements, provided a comprehensive learning journey that both challenged and equipped the participants with the skills necessary for proficiency in contemporary customs procedures.

“The calibre of participation and the depth of engagement from our attendees have been outstanding. It is inspiring to witness professionals and customs officials coming together to not only learn but also to shape the future of customs operations. Their dedication to excellence is a powerful affirmation of the course’s value and our signature teaching approach.”

(Alex Ariza, Academic Manager at the Escola Europea and Coordinator for the course)

The Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport takes pride in its commitment to educational excellence and industry relevance through its signature as well as custom-designed courses (such as this one). The successful completion of the “Executive Strategy for Customs Procedures” course marks another milestone in its mission to deliver specialized training tailored to the needs of the logistics and transportation sectors. Looking to the future, the Escola Europea continues to innovate and adapt its educational offerings, ensuring that professionals remain at the forefront of industry developments and best practices.

Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport Forges Strategic Partnership with STC Group to Enhance Intermodal Training Opportunities

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In the photo (left to right): Ramon van Hal, lecturer and specialist in port logistics; Hans Wentink, Director, STC Group; Eduard Rodés, Director, Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport; Marta Miquel, Chief Business Officer, Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport

The Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport, a renowned European centre for logistics and intermodal transport training, is proud to announce a new partnership with the STC Group, the main training institute in the Port of Rotterdam led by its Director, Hans Wentink, and supported by Ramon van Hal, a distinguished Lecturer specialising in port logistics.

This dynamic collaboration marks the framework for a collaboration which started seven years ago and it is now stated as key for both institutions. This agreement defines a journey to enrich the intermodal training landscape by bringing together two influential institutions dedicated to education and industry excellence.

Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea, expressed his enthusiasm for this collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to join forces with the STC Group. This partnership opens up vast opportunities for students in Rotterdam and Barcelona, allowing them to explore the intricacies of maritime and intermodal transport. Together, we aim to foster innovation and cultivate the next generation of logistics leaders.”

During a day of intensive discussions and facility presentations, the Escola Europea team showcased their facilities to the Dutch experts. The result of these fruitful deliberations is a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that outlines several key objectives:

  • Establishing an institutional framework to facilitate collaboration on international and European projects, aimed at developing new training programmes and enhancing student mobility between the two countries.
  • Sharing best practices within the framework of the Port Logistics International Knowledge Academy – PLIKA, in collaboration with other network partners.
  • Strengthening cooperation in the fields of human resources development and youth training, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping the future of logistics.

The collaboration will focus on a diverse range of training areas, including foreign trade, sustainable development, freight forwarding, intermodal transport, port logistics, energy transition, and distribution logistics.

The Escola Europea specialises in courses in the Mediterranean designed for current and future professionals responsible for managing logistics chains, offering cost-effective alternatives in terms of service, cost, and time. In contrast, the STC Group brings extensive expertise in higher education focused on transport and port operations. This partnership provides a comprehensive training proposition in intermodal freight transport, offering students a wealth of opportunities to excel.

The Escola Europea prides itself in employing an experiential learning methodology, combining theoretical instruction with hands-on facility visits to introduce the concept of ‘co-modality’ as a tool for improving transport management. With access to port and rail facilities, students gain first-hand insights into intermodal logistics and transport operations. Furthermore, the Escola’s Port Virtual Lab, an innovative and comprehensive platform, offers cutting-edge technological and educational tools, enabling international trade, logistics, and transport students and professionals to simulate real-life operations and access a wide range of resources to enhance their knowledge and skills.

As a prominent educational institution, the STC Group is a household name in the world of shipping, transport, logistics, and the process industry in Rotterdam and beyond. The organisation is dedicated to providing high-quality education and training to learners of all ages and actively participates in European knowledge projects, contributing to the development of future professional requirements and educational programmes.

Port Virtual Lab continues to bridge knowledge and practical application in international logistics

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PVL welcomes the Saudi Logistics Academy and ITS La Spezia among its collaborators

Port Virtual Lab (PVL), has launched comprehensive trainings designed to hone the skills of students in the intricate world of international logistics and transportation operations this past week, bridging the gap between knowledge and practical applications of the industries. The two separate pilot courses have been designed for students coming from ITS La Spezia in Italy and the Saudi Logistics Academy. The former will begin on the 25th of January and continue until the 15th of March, whereas the latter has launched this past Monday on the 22nd of January, and will continue until the 28th of February. The sessions will be held over eight weeks with half-day instruction, marking a significant step in the practical education of future logistics professionals. These courses aim to test and pilot the concept that came out of the Escola’s participation in the European YEP MED project, which finalised in December of 2023. By providing students with hands-on training in international logistics and transportation operations through a simulated environment offered by Port Virtual Lab (PVL), we aim to refine and enhance the practical applications of the innovative ideas developed during the European project.

Empowering the Next Generation of Logistics Experts

Over the next few weeks, participants will engage in an immersive learning environment that spans the full spectrum of the supply chain. Adopting roles within the platform’s extensive range of simulated companies, students will experience first-hand the operations of freight forwarders, whilst interacting with simulated shipping and airline companies, road transport, railways, and port terminals in a controlled and realistic environment within the platform. 

The course’s strategic objectives are threefold: to provide a simulated environment for participants to sharpen their logistics and transportation skills, to foster autonomous development in solving real-world problems, and to deepen understanding of economic principles within the context of international trade.

A Deep Dive into Real-World Simulations

Port Virtual Lab (PVL), a cutting-edge educational resource, serves as the backdrop for this advanced training programme. PVL encompasses a platform that holds 23 simulated companies within a digital port community system. The course includes a pioneering freight forwarder module developed with Click&Cargo, which offers participants near-real-life operation simulations of import and export operations.

The benefits of such simulation in training are profound. They offer real-time practice, diverse scenarios for robust problem-solving, and opportunities to test different transport combinations. These simulations allow participants to balance sustainability with the need for speed, a crucial skill in today’s fast-paced, eco-conscious market.

Through PVL’s immersive simulations, students can translate theoretical knowledge into practical expertise. They get challenged to navigate unforeseen circumstances, incidents, and conflicts that arise from the dynamics of a company’s interactions with customers and suppliers. This experience is invaluable in developing a responsible and proactive approach to decision-making.

The training also emphasizes the application of economic analysis to international trade, a critical aspect of the global market. Students will learn to identify the benefits and constraints of how global markets operate, equipping them with the analytical skills necessary for strategic decision-making in international logistics.

Looking Ahead

Port Virtual Lab courses are more than just a training programme; they serve as a bridge to the future of logistics education. By merging real-world scenarios with state-of-the-art simulation technology, PVL is setting a new standard for experiential learning. The course is not only equipping participants with the necessary tools to excel in the logistics and transportation sectors but also aims to instil a keen understanding of the global trade mechanisms and the versatility required to adapt to its ever-changing landscape.

PVL invites industry professionals, educational institutions, and students to continue this journey of discovery and professional development. The success of this course is a testament to the collaborative effort between PVL, ITS La Spezia, and the Saudi Logistics Academy, and serves as a call to action for other organisations to join in shaping the future of logistics training.

The lab is constantly evolving, with new simulations and modules being developed to mirror the latest industry trends and technologies. Those interested in being at the forefront of logistics innovation are encouraged to get involved. Whether it’s to prepare for the challenges of tomorrow, to engage with a network of like-minded professionals, or to contribute to the evolution of the logistics sector, PVL remains your premier partner in professional growth.

On Track for the Future: Rail Freight in Europe 2024

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This month in our #DidYouKnow series, we’re taking a closer look at the dynamic and ever-evolving world of rail transport. Cast your mind back to 2021, hailed as the European Year of Rail. This initiative wasn’t just a ceremonial nod to an old industry; it symbolised a renewed commitment to transforming Europe’s transport landscape. But what has changed since then? How has rail freight adapted and grown in this period? And more importantly, as we look towards 2024, what are the exciting developments and prospects that lie ahead for rail freight in Europe? In this post, we’ll delve into the successes, the challenges, and the innovative strides shaping the future of rail freight, a sector that’s proving to be more than just a link in our supply chains, but a key to sustainable, efficient, and resilient transportation in Europe.

 

Current State of Rail Freight in Europe

Rail freight is becoming increasingly vital in the European transport landscape, especially in the context of ecological sustainability. As part of the European Green Deal, rail freight is identified as a key player in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The goal? To shift a substantial portion of freight from road to rail, aiming for a 30% share of rail in European freight transport by 2030.

Here’s why rail freight stands out:

  • Emission Efficiency: A freight train emits just 24 grams of greenhouse gases per ton transported and kilometre travelled, making it significantly cleaner than road freight. This efficiency is less than one-fifth of the emissions produced by road freight vehicles.
  • E-Mobility Dominance: The rail freight sector is already ahead in e-mobility. The more we take advantage of green electricity, the closer we get to net-zero emissions.
  • Continued Potential for Improvement: As green energy sources become more prevalent, the rail sector’s environmental footprint is poised to reduce even further.

These are some of the factors that underscore the strategic importance of rail in Europe’s transition to a more sustainable transport network.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the prospects of rail freight in Europe are bright, the path is not without its challenges. A crucial aspect of realizing the EU’s ambitious target for rail freight involves addressing the current obstacles and harnessing the emerging opportunities. So let’s have a look at what they are: 

Obstacles to Growth:

  • Infrastructural Variability: The EU member states present a diverse picture in terms of rail freight capabilities. For instance, while Lithuania boasts a rail freight share of 64.7%, Greece lags behind with just 3.2%. Such disparities reflect the varied infrastructural and economic landscapes across the region.
  • Territorial Fragmentation: Perhaps the most significant hurdle is the lack of standardization. In contrast to road transport’s seamless cross-border operations, rail freight often encounters barriers at national borders due to differing technical standards and regulations. This territorial fragmentation hinders the efficiency and attractiveness of rail freight as a pan-European transport solution.

Opportunities for Advancement:

  • Investment in Infrastructure: According to the latest EU report, there’s been significant investment in rail infrastructure. In 2020, EU Member States reported a total funding of €40.65 billion for rail infrastructure. This investment is pivotal in modernizing and harmonizing rail networks across Europe.
  • Electrification of Tracks: The move towards electrification is noteworthy. With varying rates of network electrification across EU countries, there’s substantial scope for expansion, enhancing both the environmental and operational efficiency of rail freight.

Future Outlook and Things to Look Out for in 2024

As we advance into 2024, the rail freight sector in Europe is poised at an exciting juncture, with several developments worth watching:

  • Increased Infrastructure Investment: Ongoing investment in rail infrastructure will continue to be a major focus, aimed at enhancing efficiency and connectivity across the continent.
  • Advancements in Automation and Digitization: The rail freight industry is rapidly embracing technological innovations. Automation in rail operations promises to enhance efficiency and safety, reducing the reliance on manual processes. Digitization, on the other hand, is set to revolutionize the way freight is managed and tracked, offering more transparent, reliable, and efficient logistics solutions. These advancements are not just futuristic concepts; they are becoming tangible realities that are reshaping the landscape of rail freight.
  • Standardization Efforts: The push towards standardization across the EU rail network is expected to gain momentum. This will facilitate smoother cross-border rail freight movement, making it a more attractive option for shippers.
  • Growth in Rail’s Freight Share: With these initiatives and investments, an increase in rail’s share of the overall freight transport market in Europe is anticipated. This growth will be a testament to the sector’s adaptability and commitment to meeting the evolving demands of trade and commerce.

These trends signal a robust future for rail freight, contributing significantly to a more sustainable and interconnected Europe.

Concluding thoughts

As we look towards the future, the significance of rail freight in Europe’s transport network becomes increasingly clear. Since the European Year of Rail in 2021, the journey towards 2024 has been marked by remarkable strides, setting the stage for an even more promising path ahead.

Innovations in rail technology, including automation and digitalization, are set to revolutionize freight transport. These advancements are not just about enhancing efficiency; they’re about reshaping how goods move across Europe. Moreover, the strengthening of supply chain resilience through rail freight is becoming increasingly crucial in a rapidly changing global trade landscape.

The road ahead involves enhanced cooperation among EU nations, key to overcoming the challenge of territorial fragmentation and achieving a truly integrated rail network. This cooperation is vital not only for the internal dynamics of the EU but also for its role in global trade and logistics, where rail freight offers a reliable and efficient alternative to other modes of transport.

In light of these exciting developments, our upcoming course on intermodal freight operations – SURCO Aragón. It’s an opportunity for professionals to gain critical skills in optimising transport operations, balancing cost, time, and environmental considerations, with a special focus on integrating rail for maximum efficiency and sustainability.

Are you ready to be at the forefront of this exciting sector? Explore this edition of our SURCO course in intermodal freight operations (offered in Spanish) and gain the expertise to optimise your transport operations, integrating rail for maximum efficiency and sustainability. 

Join us in shaping the future of transport!

We’ve done our research – so should you! Check out our sources below to delve more deeply into the topic: 

SOURCES 

  1. “The Future of Rail Freight in Europe” – DHL Freight Connections. DHL Freight Connections.
  2. “What has changed in European rail: the highlights of the latest EU report” – RailTech, October 2023. RailTech Article. 
  3. European Environment Agency. European Environment Agency Website.
  4. European Commission – European Green Deal. European Green Deal Information.
  5. European Commission’s Transport and Mobility Overview. European Commission – Transport.
  6. EU Infrastructure Investment Reports. EU Infrastructure Investment Data.
  7. European Railway Review: Articles and reports on the latest trends and future projections in rail transport within Europe. European Railway Review.