Home » Important Notice: EU Import Control System 2 (ICS2) – Regulatory Requirements
Important Notice: EU Import Control System 2 (ICS2) – Regulatory Requirements
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A busy shipping port with stacked containers and yellow gantry cranes under a sunset or sunrise.

We would like to remind our customers of the implementation of the Import Control System 2 (ICS2), the European Union’s enhanced pre-arrival safety and security program for cargo entering or transiting through EU Member States, as well as Norway, Switzerland, and Northern Ireland. Effective 1 September 2025, ICS2 became mandatory across all modes of transport—air, ocean, road, and rail. This regulation requires the submission of detailed shipment data via an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) prior to cargo arrival at the EU border.

What You Need to Know ICS2 is designed to:

  • Strengthen EU border security
  • Enable early risk assessment
  • Facilitate legitimate trade
  • Prevent delays and penalties due to non-compliance

Your Responsibilities as a Shipper or Cargo Owner

To ensure compliance and avoid disruptions, please take note of the following obligations:

Data Submission Requirements

You must provide:

  • A complete and accurate commercial description of each item
  • A valid Harmonized System (HS) code, consisting of at least six digits—though in many cases, EU customs may require eight digits or the full tariff code.
  • A valid Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number for the EU consignee/importer (and for other parties in the EU where applicable)
  • Full details of all parties involved (seller, buyer, consignor, consignee)

Filing Responsibilities

  • Freight Forwarders/NVOCCs: File ENS at the house bill level.
  • Carriers: File ENS at the master bill level.
  • Consignees: Provide valid EORI numbers to ensure accurate filing.

Non-Compliance Risks Failure to comply with ICS2 requirements may lead to:

  • Shipments being delayed, rejected, or held at EU borders
  • Customs inspections and possible administrative penalties
  • Additional costs related to storage or missed deliveries

Recommended Actions to prepare for ICS2 compliance:

  • Audit your product master data for HS codes and descriptions
  • Standardize commercial invoices and packing lists
  • Validate and integrate EORI numbers into your systems
  • Establish clear communication protocols with your logistics partners
  • Ensure complete shipment data is provided to your freight forwarder in time for ENS filing (e.g., at least 24 hours before vessel loading for ocean freight).

Technology & Support

In response to the EU’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) requirements, we want to reassure our customers that our experienced staff and systems are fully prepared to manage the necessary data submissions and compliance procedures on your behalf. To support this service and ensure the smooth processing of your shipments, a compliance handling fee will apply. This fee covers the administrative effort and data validation to meet the latest EU regulations efficiently and accurately.

We are also investing in digital tools and customs platforms to automate data validation and submission, reducing manual errors and ensuring timely compliance. If you have any questions or would like guidance on preparing your shipment data, please contact your JAS account representative.