If you trade FOB Rotterdam, you will meet a family of acronyms — TTO, TTT, TTV and related terms — that describe exactly how product moves in and out of tank. They look cryptic but each simply names a delivery mechanism. Here is what they mean.
The Rotterdam in-tank context
Rotterdam is a major storage and trading hub where refined products are held in independent tank terminals. FOB deals there are frequently settled "in-tank" rather than by loading a vessel immediately, which is why the market uses precise terms for who moves what, and where.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| TTT / TTO | Tank-to-Tank (Transfer) — product moved from the seller’s tank to the buyer’s tank within the terminal. |
| TTV | Tank-to-Vessel — product loaded from tank directly onto the buyer’s nominated vessel. |
| Injection | Product injected into the buyer’s allocated tank capacity. |
| DTA / Dip Test | Dip Test Authorization — the buyer’s right to inspect and verify tank contents before proceeding. |
Why the mechanism matters
The chosen mechanism determines the sequence of title transfer, inspection and payment. A tank-to-tank transfer keeps product in the terminal under a new owner; a tank-to-vessel loading gets it moving immediately. Clarifying the mechanism up front avoids disputes later.
Where the dip test fits
A DTA (Dip Test Authorization) lets the buyer verify that the product genuinely sits in tank in the stated quantity and quality — a valuable protection, and one that scammers avoid granting. It works alongside independent SGS inspection. See how these fit the wider sequence on our procedures page, or enquire about EN590 and Jet A1 FOB Rotterdam.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between TTT and TTV?
TTT (tank-to-tank) transfers product between tanks inside the terminal; TTV (tank-to-vessel) loads it from tank onto your vessel. TTT keeps it in storage under new ownership; TTV gets it moving.
What is a dip test (DTA)?
A Dip Test Authorization gives the buyer the right to verify tank contents before proceeding. Combined with SGS inspection, it is a strong protection against misrepresented product.