Import Control System 2 (ICS2) in Northern Ireland: Key Changes Effective September 2025
- GMCCTradeteam
- Sep 9
- 2 min read
What is ICS2?
ICS2 is the Import Control System 2, a customs system implemented by the European Union, to enhance the safety and security at customs. It requires carriers (air, sea, rail, road/ro-ro) to submit Entry Summary Declarations (ENS) before goods enter the EU (or Northern Ireland).
Why does it apply to Northern Ireland and not to Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales?
ICS2 applies to Northern Ireland because of the Northern Ireland Protocol (now the Windsor Framework), which keeps Northern Ireland aligned with certain EU customs and safety/security rules.
Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales) left the EU customs framework on 1 January 2021. Goods entering GB are subject to UK safety and security declarations instead, not EU ones.
When was ICS2 implemented in Northern Ireland?
Carriers and their agents have been required to use ICS2 in Northern Ireland since 1st April 2025. However, there has been a Road Deployment Window that ran until1st September 2025 for road freight. You had to apply to use this window with HMRC.
Do I need to register to use the system?
Carriers (airlines, shipping lines, ferry operators, road hauliers and rail operators) are responsible for using the system and submitting the declarations. If you’re currently registered to use the Trader Support Service to move goods into Northern Ireland, you do not need to register to use ICS2. You can continue to use the Trader Support Service to submit entry summary declarations.
What information do carriers need to provide?
· Details of shipper and buyer
· 6 digit commodity code
· Mode of transport
· Description of the goods
· Weight of the goods
· Details on number of packages
· Any other information (e.g. goods subject to licence, dangerous goods etc)
If you have any questions or if you’d like further information, please email the International Trade Team, international@gmchamber.co.uk.
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