A customs broker or forwarder asked for your CBAM data

Sometimes the CBAM request doesn't come from your buyer at all, but from a customs broker or logistics company. That's normal, but check who they represent.

Reviewed by the Carbon Passport compliance team, Singapore. Updated and checked against official EU sources on 28 September 2026. Rules change often; we update this page when they do.

Quick answer

Customs brokers and freight forwarders often collect CBAM data for EU importers, sometimes acting as their indirect customs representative. Before sending data, ask your buyer to confirm the broker acts for them, then send the same figures you'd give the buyer, and nothing more.

What this request is

An email, portal invitation or form from a customs broker, freight forwarder or logistics provider asking for your emissions data, installation details or communication template.

Why your buyer is asking

EU importers can use an indirect customs representative who can hold the CBAM declarant role, and many brokers now offer CBAM data collection as a service. So the request may be legitimate even if you've never dealt with the company.

What to send

  1. Confirmation from your buyer that the broker acts for them
  2. The same data you would send the buyer directly
  3. Your installation details exactly as on export documents

Be careful about

  • Requests you can't link to a real buyer or shipment
  • Portals asking for more than CBAM needs, such as prices or customer lists
  • Sending data to several brokers with slightly different numbers

A reply you can adapt

Dear [name],

Thank you for your request regarding CBAM data for shipments to [buyer]. Before we share installation and emissions data, could you confirm that you act as [buyer]'s customs representative for CBAM, and copy our contact at [buyer]?

Once confirmed, we'll send our data for [period].

Kind regards,
[name]

Keep a copy of everything you send. The same buyer will ask again next year, and other buyers will ask for the same data.

Got a request you're not sure about?

Send us what your buyer sent. We'll tell you what they need and what it will take, free, within one week.

Send your request

Frequently asked questions

Why is a customs broker asking me for CBAM data?

Importers can use an indirect customs representative, and many brokers collect supplier data as a CBAM service.

Is it safe to send data to a broker?

Yes, once your buyer confirms the broker acts for them. Share only what CBAM needs.

Should the numbers match what I send my buyer?

Yes. Keep one data pack per installation and period and send the same figures to everyone.

Sources

This guide explains the rules in plain language. It isn't legal advice; see our disclaimer. Always check the current official texts and your buyer's instructions.

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