Why every gram of CO₂ counts now

The shipping industry is under pressure to measurably reduce its CO₂ emissions. Globally, the IMO relies on two levers: EEXI as a technical efficiency index for existing ships and CII as an annual operational rating. At the same time, the EU is tightening the fuel pathway with FuelEU Maritime and EU-ETS. For exporters, this means that routes, offers and documents must be set up to be emissions-compliant.

More about current departures:
Timetables – ODS Orient
Processes in RoRo export:
Customs clearance for RoRo shipments

Clarification of terms: EEXI, CII - and where „UEFI“ comes from

EEXI (Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index)

Assesses the technical efficiency of an existing ship. Shipowners achieve compliance through measures such as engine power limitation, propeller upgrades or waste heat utilisation.

CII (Carbon Intensity Indicator)

Measures the CO₂ intensity per transport performance over the course of the year. Result: A-E rating. Poor ratings require operational correction plans.

„UEFI“ - not an official term

In discussions, „UEFI“ usually stands for EU regulations such as FuelEU Maritime. Important: EEXI/CII = IMO, FuelEU = EU.

Official overview:
IMO - EEXI & CII
European Commission - FuelEU Maritime

How the rules work - from offer to arrival

Offer phase

Carriers integrate emissions data (gCO₂/tkm, WtW/WtT) into quotes. Shippers should request binding KPIs in RFQs.

Route planning

To comply with CII targets, the vehicle is driven more slowly or routed differently. Use flex windows and live timetables:
Timetables – ODS Orient

Documentation

Clean export/import documents and gate-ready specifications help to avoid downtimes and emissions. For details:
Customs clearance for RoRo shipments

EEXI in practice

One-off technical assessment, e.g. by:

• Engine Power Limitation (EPL)
• Hydrodynamic upgrades
• Energy-saving systems
• Wind assistance

Slower driving can influence transit times.

CII - the annual company rating

Annual A-E rating based on CO₂ per transport job. Poor ratings (D/E) lead to mandatory measures. CII data is increasingly visible in offers - important for Scope 3 reporting.

FuelEU Maritime: EU specification on the fuel path

Goal: Reduce the GHG intensity of marine fuels. Shipowners must use or compensate for low-carbon fuels. Shippers see the prospect of CO₂ cost components in the offer.

Quick comparison of the instruments

Instrument
EEXI - IMO, technical efficiency, indirectly relevant via speed
CII - IMO, operational CO₂ intensity, A-E rating visible
FuelEU Maritime - EU, GHG intensity of fuel, influences offers

Checklist: operational implementation of the „eexi uefi declaration“

A) Procurement & offers

• Define KPIs in RFQ/RFP (e.g. gCO₂/tkm, WtW)
• Have CO₂ costs shown separately
• Plan A/B departures for flexibility

B) Planning & Routes

• Use live timetables
• Document flex windows and terminal specifications

C) Documents & Gate-Ready

• Export: Invoice, packing list, B/L, MRN
• RoRo: empty, tank < ¼, rollable, photo documentation
• Import: Clarify exemption at an early stage

D) Data flow & reporting

• Link EDI events + AIS + B/L
• Save Scope 3 documentation per programme

Practical table: Mandatory information per consignment

IdentificationBooking number, IMO no., recipient
loadDimensions, weight, VIN
RoutingPorts, ETD/ETA
DocumentsInvoice, Packing list, MRN
emissionsMethodology, unit, CII rating if applicable

Avoid common stumbling blocks

1. „UEFI“ = FuelEU, not IMO
2. AIS ≠ Status: EDI events are required
3. No flex windows = risk with ETA
4. Gate-ready underestimated = service life
5. Missing CO₂ KPIs = poor data situation

FAQ: EEXI & UEFI - short & sweet

Is „UEFI“ an official IMO term?
No - usually FuelEU Maritime is meant.

What is the difference between EEXI and CII?
EEXI = technology (one-off), CII = operation (annual).

Do the rules affect timetables?
Yes - through speed/routing adjustments.

Which documents are critical?
Invoice, packing list, B/L, MRN; for RoRo: gate-ready standards.

What does this mean for my budget?
CO₂ cost components may occur. An individual offer is required for details.

Conclusion: „eexi uefi declaration“ in practice

A practical eexi uefi declaration means: clarity about the control sources, clean KPI requirements, well thought-out planning - and documentation that can be used for emissions. If you get this right today, you can export safely, sustainably and predictably in 2025/2026.

Disclaimer: All information in this article has been carefully researched but is subject to change at any time. ODS Orient accepts no liability for the topicality, accuracy and completeness of the information provided.