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What is the EU's Import Control System (ICS2) and what UK traders, hauliers and carriers need to know?

Updated: Nov 11

The European Union alongside Switzerland and Norway have introduced a new pre-arrival security and safety programme, underpinned by a large-scale advance cargo information system known as Import Control System 2 (ICS2).


The pre-arrival security and safety programme will support effective risk-based customs controls whilst facilitating free flow of legitimate trade across the EU external borders. It represents the first line of defence in terms of protection of the EU internal market and the EU consumers.


The system has planned three releases, the first which took place on the 3rd June 2024, when all sea freight shipments into or via the EU27, Switzerland and Norway as well as Northern Ireland had to start complying with new advance ENS data filling requirements prior to the vessel loading to protect the market from security and safety threats, based on the requirements of the customs authorities of the involved states.


The ICS2 has two more deployments schedule based on the transport mode as follows:


  • 4th December 2024: Maritime and Inland waterways house level filers

  • 1st April 2025: Road and rail carriers


Since the UK left the EU, we are no longer part of the EU's safety and security zone. So, if you are an UK exporter, haulier or carrier, make sure you know about the data requirements you may need to supply to your EU customers and/or customs authorities pre-arrival.


Make sure your frontline staff knows about this requirements and has a fair understanding of the information they need to provide. (e.g. tariff codes, etc)


Further Guidance

Source: European Union, UK Gov

 





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