EFTCO
Definition:
EFTCO (European Federation of Tank Cleaning Organizations) is a European association that represents tank cleaning companies and develops harmonized standards for the professional cleaning of tank vehicles, tank containers and silo vehicles.
The aim is to ensure safe, transparent and environmentally friendly cleaning processes along the chemical supply chain. EFTCO brings together over 630 certified cleaning stations in 25 European countries.
ECD/eECD
EFTCO has developed the standardized Cleaning Document (ECD) and the digital eECD to ensure uniform documentation of cleaning processes across Europe and to increase protection against manipulation and traceability.
Certification & safety standards
EFTCO operates a Europe-wide recognized audit and certification program for tank cleaning stations to ensure high quality and environmental standards.
Sources/further links:
EFTCO Mission & Organization: About us | EFTCO
EFTCO Cleaning Document (ECD/eECD): ECD | EFTCO
EFTCO challenges:
Different cleaning requirements & verification formats in the supply chain
Despite EFTCO standards, not all shippers and logistics partners use uniform documents or digital evidence, which leads to media breaks, manual checks and uncertainties when approving transport.
Sources/further links:
EFTCO — Background on the introduction of eECD: ECD | EFTCO
Manual and error-prone communication on cleaning requirements
Drivers and freight forwarders often receive tank cleaning requirements via various channels. Without clear guidelines, incorrect cleaning or lack of documentation can result in rejections or delays in loading.
Sources/further links:
ECTA/EFTCO Cleaning Guidance: Guidelines| ECTA - European Chemical Transport Association
