The European Union’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is the new pre-arrival security and safety program that affects all goods entering the EU and EU origin cargo which is on board a vessel during a port call outside the EU (so called FROB Cargo). For businesses involved in international logistics - especially freight forwarders, carriers, and importers - it is essential to understand the requirements of ICS2 to ensure compliance, avoid delays at customs, and maintain a smooth supply chain.

This blog article outlines what ICS2 is, who it affects, and what customers need to consider when shipping goods into the EU.

What Is ICS2?

ICS2 (Import Control System 2) is an advanced cargo information system introduced by the European Commission as part of its new Customs Pre-Arrival Security and Safety program. It replaces the previous ICS1 and requires that more detailed information about goods being imported into the EU be submitted before arrival.

The core component of ICS2 is the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS), which must be submitted electronically to EU Customs for risk assessment and clearance. This enables customs authorities to identify potential safety and security threats prior to goods entering EU territory.
For more information, see the official European Commission ICS2 page.

Who Is Affected by ICS2?

ICS2 affects all logistics stakeholders involved in transporting goods into the EU, including:

• Air, sea, road, and rail carriers
• Freight forwarders and express couriers
• Postal operators
• Importers and e-commerce businesses

Depending on your role in the supply chain, you are responsible for submitting the ENS data or ensuring that your logistics partners do so accurately and on time.

What Needs to Be Submitted in the ENS?

The Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) must include detailed information about the shipment, such as:

• Shipper and consignee information
• Commodity details, including HS codes
• Packaging details
• Transport route and means of transport
• EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification)

For many businesses, this means that data quality and completeness at the time of booking are now more critical than ever.
You can find a full list of data requirements in the EU’s ENS data set overview.

Timeline and Implementation Phases

ICS2 is being rolled out in phases:

• Release 1 (March 2021): Focused on postal and express shipments by air.
• Release 2 (March 2023): Extended to general air cargo.
• Release 3 (Scheduled for March 2024, gradually implemented): Covers maritime, road, rail, and the rest of air cargo operators.

Each phase brings new obligations for logistics providers, depending on the mode of transport. Ensure your logistics partners are ICS2-ready for your shipment type.

What Does This Mean for Our Customers?

As your logistics partner, we at Leschaco are committed to ensuring your shipments remain compliant, secure, and on schedule. However, we rely on accurate and complete shipment information to do this effectively.
Here’s what we ask of you:

• Provide accurate shipment data at the time of booking, including proper HS codes, full addresses, and packaging details.
• Ensure your EORI number is valid and shared when required.
• Collaborate with your supply chain partners to confirm that all ICS2 requirements are met prior to departure.

Delays or errors in the ENS submission can result in cargo holds, fines, or shipment rejections by EU Customs.

Benefits of ICS2

While ICS2 introduces additional steps, it also offers benefits:

Improved security through better pre-arrival cargo screening

Faster customs clearance for compliant and well-documented shipments

Harmonized EU-wide data standards, reducing inconsistencies across borders

How Leschaco Supports You

We have adapted our systems and processes to meet ICS2 requirements, including seamless data transmission and digital compliance checks. Our teams are trained and ready to guide you through the updated procedures - whether by air, sea, road, or rail.

If you have any questions or would like assistance in preparing for ICS2, please reach out to your Leschaco representative. You can also find more resources directly on the ICS2 section of the European Commission website.

ICS2 is a major step toward a more secure and digitalized border process in the EU. While it brings new obligations, with the right preparation and support, your shipments can continue to move smoothly across borders.