Short answer: From 2026, stricter environmental regulations will apply to Ro-Ro transport at three levels: The IMO regulations (including EEXI and CII) set global efficiency standards; the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) will cover 100 per cent of eligible maritime emissions from 2026 onwards, and FuelEU Maritime limits the greenhouse gas intensity of the energy used on board. For shippers, this is reflected primarily in surcharges and in timetable and cost planning.
The key points in 5 points
- In my opinion: global standards for ship efficiency (EEXI) and operational performance indicators (CII), as well as a net-zero strategy.
- EU ETS: From 2026, 100 per cent of the emissions covered will be subject to certification (phased in from 2024).
- FuelEU Maritime: has been in force since 2025 and sets a limit on the greenhouse gas intensity of the energy used.
- Consequences for shippers: new or higher environmental and emissions surcharges.
- Planning: Shipping companies adjust routes, speeds and timetables – this affects transit times.
Which IMO regulations apply to Ro-Ro ships?
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) sets the global framework. The EEXI (Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index) requires a technical efficiency standard for existing ships, which CII (Carbon Intensity Indicator) assesses a company’s CO₂ intensity annually, using a rating scale from A to E. In addition, there is the IMO’s strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, with the aim of achieving net zero by mid-century. An overview of the background to this is provided by the IMO on greenhouse gas emissions.
What does the EU ETS mean for Ro-Ro transport?
The EU Emissions Trading Scheme was extended to maritime transport and introduced in stages: following a transitional period, 100 per cent from 2026 onwards to offset the emissions from voyages relating to the European Economic Area through emissions allowances. Shipping companies must purchase these allowances and generally pass on the costs via emissions surcharges. You can read about the practical implications of this in our article EU ETS in RoRo practice. Details of the EU regulation can be found at the European Commission.
What does FuelEU Maritime cover?
FuelEU Maritime has been in force since 2025 and sets limit values for the Greenhouse gas intensity the energy consumed on board, with regulations becoming stricter over time. The aim is to promote the use of lower-emission fuels and technologies. This, too, incurs costs that may be reflected in surcharges and timetable planning – read more about this in our article on FuelEU Maritime 2026.
What does this mean in practical terms for shippers?
For you, as a shipper, three points are particularly important:
- Surcharges: Emissions and environmental surcharges will be included in the calculation. Enquire about these at an early stage and ensure they are shown clearly.
- Timetables: Measures such as slow steaming can extend journey times – make sure to allow for a buffer.
- Documentation: Ensure that environmental costs are clearly itemised in quotations and invoices.
What’s the best way to prepare?
Make a point of discussing environmental surcharges and how they are calculated with your haulage contractor, allow for time buffers to accommodate adjusted timetables, and bear in mind that the regulations are set to become even stricter. If you understand the rules, you’ll be better able to compare quotes and avoid any surprises.
FAQ
Does the EU ETS also apply to transport outside the EU?
The EU ETS covers emissions relating to the European Economic Area, partly on a pro rata basis for journeys into and out of the EEA. Journeys that are entirely unrelated to the EEA are not covered. The exact classification depends on the route.
Why are the surcharges set to rise in 2026?
This is because, from 2026, the EU ETS will cover 100 per cent of the emissions included in the scheme, rather than just a proportion, as was the case during the introductory phase. As a result, the emissions costs passed on by shipping companies will rise.
What is the difference between the EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime?
The EU ETS sets a price on emissions through allowances. FuelEU Maritime, on the other hand, sets limits on the greenhouse gas intensity of the energy used on board. Both operate in parallel.
As a shipper, do I have to buy certificates myself?
No. The responsibility lies with the shipping company. As the shipper, you bear the costs through emissions and environmental surcharges.
Will this result in longer transit times?
Possible. Efficiency measures such as slow steaming may extend transit times. Please allow for appropriate buffer times when planning time-sensitive shipments.
All the information in this article has been carefully researched, but is subject to change at any time. ODS Orient accepts no liability for the timeliness, accuracy or completeness of the information provided. Please contact us directly for a no-obligation quote.
Sources
- European Commission: Reducing emissions from the shipping sector
- IMO: Reducing GHG emissions from shipping
In-depth articles on environmental regulations
We cover the individual sets of regulations in detail in our articles on the IMO CO₂ regulations 2026 as well as to EEXI & UEFI explained simply.