EFTCO concluded 2024 on a stable note and looks ahead to the next 12 months with confidence.
A strong and continuous management team, along with well-established cooperation with all partners, provides a solid foundation for a successful year. This year, engagement with logistics associations and representatives from the shipping industry will remain a key priority. Supporting all members while addressing the geographically diverse needs of the sector is essential in fulfilling existing commitments.
EFTCO Cleaning Document (ECD)
In 2024, over 4 million EFTCO Cleaning Documents (ECDs) were issued across Europe, reinforcing the ECD as the industry’s most trusted certification of competent and high-quality cleaning.
EFTCO continues to be the largest tank cleaning organisation in Europe, maintaining a global outlook.
With 630 connected tank cleaning stations across Europe, the need for continuous adaptation and improvement of ECD content and cleaning services remains a priority.
The EFTCO Codes, available in multiple languages, were updated in 2024 based on industry feedback. Two new codes were introduced in response to specific requests:
• E59 – Mixer (Agitator/Stirrer) Cleaning: Ensures thorough cleaning of integrated mixers within tank containers and IBCs, with a special focus on verification.
• E73 – Cleaning of CIP Installation: Covers the cleaning of fixed CIP (Clean-In-Place) systems within transport tanks.
The Best Practice Guidelines for Cleaning Dry Bulk Polymer Transport Tanks, published by CEFIC in 2024, can now be fully described using EFTCO Cleaning Codes.
In November 2024, CEFIC released Issue 5 of its guidelines, updating the 2018 version. Notable changes include the introduction of a chapter on Intermodal Transport Units and an extension of Chapter 8 addressing the Operation Clean Sweep® – Zero Pellet Loss initiative.
Digitalisation and ECLIC expansion
EFTCO's participation in ECLIC is expected to drive increased demand for electronic ECDs (eECDs) in 2025, particularly within the loading industry. Planned projects in Benelux and Spain aim to accelerate the adoption of eECD 2.0, a proven digital documentation system that offers both electronic and paper-based functionality when required.
However, ecological and regulatory challenges, particularly in the chemical industry, have delayed the initial timeline for ECLIC’s full digital transition.
The integration of digital communication at loading points has not progressed as swiftly as initially anticipated.
Despite this, EFTCO remains committed to digitalisation and does not endorse fragmented, semi-digital solutions based on PDF formats.
EFTCO believes the shift towards digitalisation is inevitable and must involve seamless collaboration between loading points, transporters, tank cleaning companies, and software providers.
With successful digital communication models already in place, 2025 is expected to see significant expansion in this area.
Transport Logistic Show 2025 – Munich (B4/401)
To engage with the industry and gain further insight into market needs, EFTCO and DVTI will participate in the Transport Logistic Show 2025, taking place in Munich from 2–5 June. Representatives will be available at Hall B4, Stand 401, providing a key opportunity to connect with European and global logistics professionals.
EFTCO Food Assessment
Since its introduction in 2018, over 460 EFTCO Food Assessments have been conducted, providing detailed insights into quality standards for the food industry. Combined with the Safety & Quality Assessment for Sustainability (SQAS), the EFTCO Food Assessment offers a comprehensive evaluation framework for quality assurance.
Building on feedback from industry professionals and accredited auditors, the 2023 questionnaire will be revised and improved this year to enhance its effectiveness.
Kosher and Halal compliance
Ensuring compliance with Kosher and Halal requirements remains a key focus for EFTCO.
Regular reviews ensure that the latest technologies and processes are considered, while economic and environmental developments are taken into account. Discussions with rabbinical and Islamic representatives will continue in 2025 to maintain alignment with evolving standards.
Addressing security challenges
One of EFTCO's top priorities for 2025 is tackling the misdeclaration of the last product transported before cleaning.
This practice, often intended to reduce cleaning costs or obtain favourable documentation, poses significant risks to environmental safety, process integrity, and human health.
Some regions have seen an increase in deliberate misreporting, with certain clients exerting pressure to falsify cleaning documents. This is a serious concern, as incorrect declarations can compromise the safety of subsequent loads. EFTCO strictly prohibits such practices and investigates any known cases, imposing economic sanctions where necessary.
Industry-wide cooperation is essential to combat this issue. All EFTCO-affiliated cleaning facilities must remain vigilant, and only those demonstrating strict adherence to environmental and safety standards will be authorised to issue EFTCO Cleaning Documents (ECDs).
For more information: Visit eftco.org
EFTCO – moving forward into 2025
