What is OFTP2?
What is OFTP2? It is the transfer protocol of the automotive industry. It sends EDI files securely over the internet, including very large ones.
By Vincent Rosenkranz, Sales & Marketing Manager at BESITEC · Updated 9 Nov 2026
In short. Odette File Transfer Protocol version 2, defined in RFC 5024. Files are encrypted, signed and acknowledged by the recipient. If a transfer breaks off, it resumes where it stopped.
What is an OFTP2 transfer, step by step
- Signwith certificate
- Encryptfile and session
- Sendover the internet
- Verifysignature and content
- EERPreceipt
It is published by Odette International, the European automotive organisation for logistics and data exchange.
What both partners need
- An Odette ID the unique identifier in data exchange
- Certificates for session and files, issued by a recognised authority
- A reachable server that accepts files around the clock
- A test with the partner before go-live
The old OFTP over ISDN is ending because ISDN networks have been switched off. Anyone still using it should migrate.
What is OFTP2 compared to AS2?
| Feature | OFTP2 | AS2 |
|---|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive | Retail, consumer goods |
| Large files | yes, resumes after failure | limited |
| Receipt | EERP | MDN |
| Basis | RFC 5024 | RFC 4130 |
BESITEC runs both connections. Your partner chooses the protocol, you receive the data ready for your ERP.
OFTP2 FAQ
Do I need my own software?
Not necessarily. An EDI service provider runs the connection, your ERP only exchanges files with it.
What is an EERP?
End-to-End Response. The recipient’s receipt confirming the file arrived complete.
Which formats run over it?
Mainly VDA formats and EDIFACT, such as delivery schedules, despatch advices and invoices.
What happens when a certificate expires?
The connection fails. A service provider monitors expiry dates and renews in time.
More terms in the glossary
A manufacturer requires a connection from you?
In 30 minutes, Vincent Rosenkranz, Sales & Marketing Manager, clarifies what your partner requires and how the connection works.
