ICS2: The Next Phase in EU Customs Control – Are You Ready?

From 31 December 2025, most Member State derogations will end, making ICS2 fully mandatory across the majority of the EU for all imports.

ICS2 requires far more detailed Entry Summary Declarations, including mandatory HS codes, EORI numbers, and clear goods descriptions, therefore vague terms like “parts” or “samples” will no longer be accepted. It's new multi-filing model also means carriers, forwarders, and other supply chain partners must coordinate more closely than ever.

A System Designed for Security and Transparency

ICS2 replaces the older Import Control System (ICS) with a more advanced digital platform that allows for pre-arrival risk assessments. This means customs authorities can identify high-risk shipments early, often before goods are even loaded onto the vessel or vehicle bound for the EU.

The system applies not only to goods destined for the EU but also to those transiting through it. ICS2 is being adopted by all EU Member States, Norway, Switzerland, and Northern Ireland, and it impacts virtually every mode of transport including air, sea, road, and rail across various phases of implementation.

What’s Changing Under ICS2?

At the heart of ICS2 is the requirement for advanced electronic submission of Entry Summary Declarations. These declarations are far more detailed than their predecessors. They require not just transport information, but also specific consignment level data such as the 6-digit HS code, the EORI number of the consignee, and a clear description of the goods. Generic labels like "parts" or "samples" are no longer acceptable.

Another fundamental change is the multi-filing approach. Unlike the previous system where a single party typically submitted the ENS, ICS2 allows multiple entities such as carriers and freight forwarders to submit parts of the same declaration. This modular filing model means coordination between supply chain actors is more critical than ever.

To facilitate these submissions, the EU has launched a centralised platform known as the Shared Trader Interface (STI). Operators must either integrate their systems with the STI or access it through the EU Customs Trader Portal, which requires registration through the Self-Service Portal (SSP). Without these steps, traders won’t be able to legally submit the necessary data, potentially holding up shipments at the border.

Why Compliance Matters Now More Than Ever

The penalties for non-compliance with ICS2 go beyond administrative headaches. Submitting incorrect or incomplete information can lead to customs authorities blocking cargo from being loaded at the origin, detaining goods upon arrival, or issuing financial penalties. For just-in-time supply chains, these disruptions can have ripple effects far beyond a single missed delivery.

Phase 3 of ICS2 will significantly affect international road hauliers, and rail logistics operators. All of them must begin aligning their systems, staff, and workflows with ICS2 requirements immediately. Given the complexity of shipping documentation and the often-fragmented nature of the transport industry, this will likely require internal audits, IT upgrades, and enhanced communication with third-party logistics providers.

Swipe through below to learn more about the data requirements you need to prepare for ICS2.

Here to help

We're excited to announce that our CABIE ICS Portal is LIVE. You can submit your ICS2 Safety and Security declarations for goods entering the EU. Whether your goods are moving as accompanied or unaccompanied through GVMS ports, this new portal has you covered.

You’ll can pull in data straight from an Export Accompanying Document (EAD). If you’re already using CABIE with a UK EORI number, you can simply enter the MRN. Either way, it’s a quick and straightforward way to get your consignment details into the declaration.