ICS2 Customs Regulation for Shipments to and through Europe: What You Need to Know

What Is the Import Control System 2 (ICS2)?

The Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is the European Union's advanced IT system to gather critical safety and security data for all goods entering the EU. By enabling customs authorities to assess potential risks proactively, the system ensures swift and appropriate actions are taken at the earliest possible stage.

This new system requires advanced cargo information (ACI) to be submitted electronically for all goods entering or transiting through the EU. Before vessel loading, this information must be provided to ensure compliance with the updated customs regulations.

How does the ICS2 customs regulation work:

ICS2 introduces a multi-level risk assessment process based on the information submitted, leading to a range of possible outcomes:

1. Assessment Complete (AC)

No risk is identified, and all details are verified as valid.

2. Request for Further Information (RFI)

Triggered by missing, incorrect details or minor risks.

3. Do Not Load (DNL)

Imposed when a significant risk is detected, preventing the goods from loading.

This system empowers EU customs to enhance the safety and security of its borders more efficiently.

Here are 2 critical requirements for ICS2 customs regulation:

1. Data submission

All customers must ensure that the required cargo data is submitted before loading. This will allow customs authorities to perform the necessary risk assessments.

2. ICS2 is mandatory for all shipments

It applies to all shipments to the European Union or transiting through the EU, including Northern Ireland, Switzerland, and Norway. Also, it also applies to Freight Remaining On Board (FROB) shipments, so even if it just calls on an EU port in route the filing needs to be done even though the cargo remains on board. Any non-ICS2-compliant shipment will be prevented from being uploaded to the vessel.

About documentation filling:

Filings are generally done by Freight Forwarders and Steam Ship Lines. Required mandatory data includes:

1. At least six-digit Harmonized System (HS) codes

2. Full Style Shipper and Consignee details

3. Consignee EORI number for EU Import shipments

For more details on ICS2 Release 3, please visit the corresponding EU website.

Additional tip

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