🎧 Listen to This Article
The Import Control System 2 (ICS2) represents a significant advancement in the management of cargo information, aimed at enhancing security within the global supply chain. This system requires all Economic Operators (EOs) importing goods to or transiting through the European Union (EU) to submit safety and security data via the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS). By utilizing the ENS, authorities can perform thorough safety and security risk analyses, enabling more targeted and effective controls over goods entering the EU.
The Importance of ICS2
ICS2 plays a crucial role in identifying high-risk consignments and intervening when necessary, all while allowing the secure flow of legitimate goods through the supply chain. Its primary goal is to mitigate risks associated with international shipping, ensuring that goods are tracked and managed effectively. For comprehensive resources regarding the ICS2, including technical guidelines and updates, please refer to the publicly available EU Advance Cargo Information System (ICS2) CIRCABC group.
Mark your calendars for April 1, 2025, the official go-live date for rail and road carriers. Additional information can be found in the factsheets for rail and road.
Key Aspects of ICS2 Compliance
- Accurate ENS Data Submission: Air cargo operators must ensure that all Entry Summary Declarations contain complete and accurate data to remain compliant with ICS2 regulations.
- Legal Obligations: The European Commission emphasizes the importance of adhering to ICS2 filing instructions to prevent delays and potential penalties.
Preparing for ICS2
To successfully connect to ICS2, Economic Operators must first obtain an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number from a customs authority within an EU Member State. Additionally, EOs will need to establish the necessary IT infrastructure and business processes and pass a mandatory self-conformance test.
Depending on their capabilities, EOs can either:
- Develop an in-house IT system to manage ENS filings.
- Engage an IT Service Provider (ITSP) to assist with filings.
ENS submissions can be made using the Shared Trader Portal (STP) after the sender registers with the national/central Unified User Management and Digital Signatures (UUM&DS). Alternatively, operators may opt to connect directly to ICS2 via the Shared Trader Interface (STI) upon successfully completing the self-conformance testing before the designated go-live date.
How ICS2 Operates
To ensure compliance and bolster security, Economic Operators are required to:
- Submit a complete ENS for all goods entering or transiting through the EU prior to arrival.
- For air transport, certain data must be submitted before loading commences (pre-loading phase).
- ENS filings must include all necessary data elements specific to the mode of transport.
- Depending on contractual arrangements, either single or multiple ENS filings may be used.
- Customs authorities will conduct pre-loading or pre-arrival safety and security risk analyses based on the data provided in the ENS.
- Risk analysis may lead to requests for additional information or screening of high-risk cargoes.
- Upon arrival, a notification must be lodged at the Customs office of first entry, and goods must be presented to customs.
Failure to comply with these data requirements may result in administrative sanctions.
By understanding the ICS2 and embracing its compliance requirements, Economic Operators can ensure the smooth movement of goods into the EU while upholding standards of safety and security.
Read More: EU Trade Gets Smarter with ICS2
For further details, clarification, contributions or any concerns regarding this article, please feel free to reach out to us at editorial@tax.news. We value your feedback and are committed to providing accurate and timely information. Please note that all inquiries will be handled in accordance with our privacy policy
