The European Union’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is a major upgrade in customs security procedures, designed to improve risk assessment and streamline the movement of goods across EU borders. All businesses transporting goods to or through the EU must now submit detailed cargo information in advance via the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS). This enables customs authorities to assess potential risks before shipments even arrive, ensuring the smooth flow of legitimate trade while strengthening border security.

What is ICS2 and Why Does It Matter?

ICS2 replaces and enhances the original Import Control System (ICS) by expanding the scope and accuracy of customs risk assessments. Covering all modes of transport—including air, sea, road, and rail—ICS2 introduces stricter data requirements for shipments entering or transiting through the EU. This means businesses must adapt their logistics and IT processes to comply with the new filing and risk assessment procedures.

By requiring more detailed and earlier cargo data submissions, ICS2 allows customs authorities to:

• Identify high-risk consignments before they reach EU borders.
• Streamline customs clearance for compliant shipments.
• Ensure consistent enforcement of security procedures across all EU Member States.

How ICS2 Affects Your Shipments

If your business is involved in EU-bound trade, ICS2 changes how you submit customs data and interact with customs authorities. Here’s what you need to know:

• Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) Filing
  Every shipment must have an ENS filed before arriving at the first EU port of entry. Air shipments require a two-step process: a partial ENS before loading and a full ENS before arrival. For sea, road, and rail, a complete ENS must be submitted before reaching EU territory.
• Customs Risk Assessments and Potential Delays
  Customs authorities analyse ENS data to assess security risks. If additional screening is required, they may request further details or even issue a “Do Not Load” order for high-risk shipments. Delays can occur if data is incomplete or if security concerns are raised, so accuracy and timeliness are essential.
• Arrival Notification and Goods Presentation
  Upon arrival, the carrier must notify customs and ensure goods are presented for possible inspection. Failure to comply with ICS2 requirements can lead to administrative penalties and disruptions in supply chains.

Who is Responsible for Filing the ENS?

The carrier transporting the goods into the EU is usually responsible for submitting the ENS. However, if they lack the necessary shipment details, the responsibility may fall on the trader or logistics provider. Filing deadlines vary by transport mode:

• Air Transport: Partial ENS required before loading; full ENS required at departure (flights under four hours) or at least four hours before arrival (flights over four hours).
• Sea Transport: ENS is required before loading for container cargo and at least two to four hours before arrival for other shipments.
• Road Transport: ENS must be submitted at least one hour before arrival in the EU.

Preparing for ICS2 Compliance

To avoid disruptions, businesses must take the following steps:

• Obtain an EORI Number
  All Economic Operators must register for an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number with an EU Member State’s customs authority to submit ENS filings.
• Upgrade IT Systems
  Businesses need systems capable of handling ICS2 data filing. This can be managed through in-house IT solutions or external IT service providers.
• Complete Mandatory Self-Conformance Testing
  Before going live with ICS2, businesses must successfully complete conformance testing to ensure their systems meet the new requirements and can connect to the ICS2 network.
• Submit ENS Filings Correctly
  ENS filings can be submitted via the Shared Trader Portal (STP) or through a custom connection via the Shared Trader Interface (STI), which requires additional compliance steps.
• Ensure Readiness for Customs Risk Management
  Businesses must be prepared to handle customs referrals, respond to requests for additional information, and complete security screening when required.

How UKP Worldwide Can Help

Navigating new customs regulations can be complex, but UKP Worldwide is here to support your business through the transition. With written instruction, our team may be able to assist in submitting ENS filings, ensuring compliance, and mitigating customs risks. If you can provide the necessary data, we may be able to act as the Sender on your behalf.

Our services include:

• IT Integration Support – Helping businesses implement the necessary IT systems and submit ICS2/ENS declarations.
• ENS Filing Services – Acting as the Sender to ensure accurate and timely ENS submissions, preventing shipment delays.
• Customs Compliance & Risk Mitigation – Assisting with customs referrals and security requirements to keep shipments moving smoothly.

As a GB Authorised Economic Operator (AEO), we provide trusted expertise in customs clearance. Contact our team today to find out how we can help your business adapt to ICS2.