CBAM reporting platforms: Why online tools aren’t enough

With the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) entering its definitive phase in just four months, many businesses are turning to CBAM reporting platforms for a quick fix. But here’s the reality: convenience comes at a cost.

Did you know that penalties for inaccurate CBAM submissions can reach up to €50 per tonne of emissions? Relying solely on one-stop online tools could leave importers exposed to errors, higher fees, and regulatory penalties.

So, why aren’t CBAM reporting platforms enough, and what should businesses do instead?

The challenges businesses face

CBAM compliance isn’t straightforward. Importers must:

• Identify which products fall under CBAM
• Gather primary emissions data from suppliers worldwide
• Avoid over-reliance on default values, which may inflate emissions and costs

Yet many suppliers lack the expertise or visibility to provide reliable carbon data. This leaves businesses caught between strict EU rules and incomplete supply chain information.

The allure of CBAM reporting platforms

Facing these hurdles, many importers turn to one-stop online CBAM reporting platforms. These tools promise to:

• Reach out to suppliers
• Collect emissions data
• Generate submission-ready reports

Sounds ideal, but the reality is more complex.

Why online tools alone fall short

1. Data verification issues: Many platforms don’t verify supplier data, leaving businesses open to errors.

2. AI-driven supplier communication: Some rely solely on chatbots to contact suppliers, failing to convey the importance of compliance.

3. Inaccurate submissions, higher risks: Incorrect data could lead to higher costs, or even penalties between €10–50 per tonne from 2026 onwards.

In short, technology without expert oversight leaves compliance gaps that businesses cannot afford.

Why expert oversight is essential

The EU is clear: primary data is the future of CBAM compliance. But moving away from default values requires expert review to avoid misreporting. Valpak’s CBAM Compliance team bridges the gap between digital efficiency and regulatory precision through:

• Obligation assessment: Confirm whether your business falls under CBAM
• Data verification: Scrutinise supplier data for accuracy
• Supplier engagement: Direct communication to ensure reliable emissions reporting
• Submission support: Help preparing accurate, timely CBAM declarations
• Ongoing updates: Guidance as CBAM evolves to avoid penalties and trade disruptions
• Carbon management insight: Reduce both your emissions footprint and compliance costs

Conclusion

Relying solely on CBAM reporting platforms is risky. While they offer convenience, they cannot replace the accuracy, scrutiny, and supplier engagement required for true compliance.

Protect your business with Valpak’s CBAM Compliance service.

Enquire today or try our FREE online obligation quiz to check if your business is affected by CBAM.