New requirements for waste shipments within the EU

The ÖBB Rail Cargo Group (RCG) will introduce the mandatory declaration of the European Waste Code (EWC) in the CIM consignment note for cross-border waste shipments as of 1 April 2026.

From 21 May 2026, the new EUwide Digital Waste Shipment System (DIWASS) will be launched. DIWASS is the European Commission’s central digital platform for the electronic exchange of information relating to waste shipments within the EU.

Preparing for the launch of DIWASS 

To ensure a smooth transition and avoid any information gaps, RCG is introducing an additional mandatory entry in the CIM consignment note in advance. From 1 April 2026, the European Waste Code (EWC) must therefore be entered for all waste shipments. This transitional measure ensures that legal requirements are met in time and that the transition to DIWASS can take place without operational disruption.

Legal basis for the new requirement 

The mandatory declaration of the EWC code in the CIM consignment note for waste transport is in line with the provisions of GLVCIM. The legal basis is Commission Decision No. 2014/955/EU amending Decision 2000/532/EC, pursuant to Directive 2008/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council.

For any enquiries, the responsible account manager is available.

25.03.2026