EU CBAM Cost Estimator 2026

What is the EU CBAM Cost Estimator?

Our EU CBAM Cost Estimator 2026 helps importers calculate their Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism costs under the definitive regime that began on January 1, 2026. CBAM applies carbon pricing to imports of steel, aluminum, electricity, cement, fertilizers, and hydrogen based on embedded emissions and weekly average EU ETS carbon prices.

This B2B calculator is designed for logistics companies, manufacturers, and importers who need to estimate CBAM costs for their imports into the European Union.

CBAM Definitive Regime: What Changed in 2026?

On January 1, 2026, the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism entered its definitive regime. This means:

• Full Carbon Pricing: Importers must pay actual carbon costs based on embedded emissions
• Weekly Price Updates: Carbon prices are based on weekly averages of EU ETS prices
• Verified Emissions: Importers must provide verified embedded emissions data
• Expanded Coverage: All six product categories are fully covered (steel, aluminum, electricity, cement, fertilizers, hydrogen)

The transition period (2023-2025) required only reporting. The definitive regime requires actual payment of CBAM costs.

How is CBAM Cost Calculated?

CBAM cost is calculated using a simple formula:

Where:

• Tonnage: Total tonnes of product imported
• Embedded Emissions: tCO2e per tonne of product (varies by product type and production method)
• Carbon Price: Weekly average EU ETS price in €/tCO2e

Which Products Are Subject to CBAM?

CBAM applies to six product categories:

Understanding Embedded Emissions

Embedded emissions (also called embodied carbon) represent the total CO2 equivalent emissions associated with producing one tonne of a product. This includes:

• Direct emissions from production processes
• Indirect emissions from energy consumption
• Emissions from raw materials extraction
• Transportation emissions (in some cases)

Our calculator provides default industry average values, but for accurate CBAM calculations, you should use:

• Verified emissions data from suppliers or LCAs
• Product-specific values rather than industry averages
• Third-party verified data when available

EU ETS Carbon Price for CBAM

The carbon price used for CBAM calculations is based on the weekly average of EU ETS (Emissions Trading System) prices. For 2026, typical prices range from €75-€95 per tCO2e.

Our calculator uses a default of €85/tCO2e as a 2026 estimate, but you should:

• Check current weekly averages from EU ETS data
• Update the carbon price input for accurate calculations
• Account for price volatility in your cost estimates

Who Needs to Pay CBAM Costs?

Importers of CBAM-covered products into the EU are responsible for paying CBAM costs. This includes:

• Logistics Companies: Importing products on behalf of clients
• Manufacturers: Importing raw materials or components
• Distributors: Importing finished products for resale
• Any EU Entity: Importing CBAM-covered products

CBAM costs are paid at the point of import, similar to customs duties. Importers must register with CBAM authorities and submit quarterly CBAM declarations.

How to Use the CBAM Cost Estimator

Using our free CBAM calculator is straightforward:

1. Select Product Type: Choose from steel, aluminum, electricity, cement, fertilizers, or hydrogen
2. Enter Tonnage: Input the total tonnes of product being imported
3. Enter Embedded Emissions: Input tCO2e per tonne (default values provided)
4. Enter Carbon Price: Input current weekly average EU ETS price (default: €85/tCO2e)
5. Calculate: Get instant CBAM cost estimate in Euros

The calculator shows total CBAM cost, cost per tonne, total emissions, and a detailed breakdown.

Important Considerations

This calculator provides estimates only. For official CBAM calculations:

• Use verified embedded emissions data from suppliers or LCAs
• Check current weekly average EU ETS carbon prices
• Consult with CBAM authorities or customs brokers
• Ensure compliance with CBAM reporting requirements
• Account for any applicable exemptions or reductions

CBAM costs can significantly impact import costs, especially for high-emission products like aluminum. Use this calculator to plan and budget for CBAM costs in your import operations.