To facilitate a smooth transition, EU Member States will grant authorisation, upon request, for affected traders to gradually connect to ICS2 within specified time frames
European Union is set to implement the third phase of its new customs pre-arrival safety and security system – Import Control System 2 (ICS2) – starting from June 3, 2024. This marks a crucial expansion of safety and security data reporting requirements to all modes of transport, including maritime and inland waterways, road, and rail. Similar measures have already been in effect for air transportation of goods.
Under the latest release, carriers using maritime and inland waterways, road, and rail will now be obligated to furnish data on goods destined for or passing through the EU before their arrival. This requirement encompasses a comprehensive Entry Summary Declaration (ENS). Even postal and express carriers using these transportation modes, along with logistics providers, will need to comply. In specific cases, final consignees within the EU may also be required to submit ENS data to ICS2.
Traders are strongly advised to proactively prepare for Release 3 to mitigate the risk of delays and non-compliance. Businesses impacted must ensure the collection of accurate and complete data from clients, update IT systems and operational processes, and provide adequate staff training. Starting from December 11, 2023, traders must successfully undergo a self-conformance test before connecting to ICS2, ensuring their capability to access and exchange messages with customs authorities.
To facilitate a smooth transition, EU Member States will grant authorisation, upon request, for affected traders to gradually connect to ICS2 within specified time frames. These time frames are: from June 3, 2024, to December 4, 2024, for maritime and inland waterway carriers; December 4, 2024, to April 1, 2025, for maritime and inland waterway house level filers; and April 1, 2025, to September 1, 2025, for road and rail carriers. Failure to comply may result in goods being halted at EU borders, with customs clearance being withheld.
The EU, accounting for approximately 14 per cent of the world’s trade in goods, aims to enhance trade safety by collecting safety and security data through ICS2. This system allows customs authorities to identify risks early on and intervene appropriately in the supply chain. ICS2 also promises to simplify the movement of goods within the EU, providing a single access point for communication with customs authorities across all member states. For traders, this will streamline information requests and pre-departure risk screenings, reducing administrative burdens. Stay tuned for further updates as the EU continues to play a pivotal role in shaping international trade dynamics.
