[Europe] Import Management System｜Import Control System2 (ICS2)｜European Customs Regulations｜Pre-declaration of Cargo Information System

The Import Control System2 (ICS2) is a customs regulation that enhances the security of shipments originating from third countries and reaching the EU to ensure the safety of European Union (EU) citizens. It was introduced and implemented in 2021 for air express and mail (Release1), and as of March 1, 2023 for all general air cargo (Release2). Starting June 3, 2024, it will apply to all cargo imported by sea, road, and rail, including air (Release3). Check out the details of ICS2, the IT-based import inspection system for cargo entering the EU 27, and prepare thoroughly.

Applies to all shipments arriving in the EU (including transit through the EU).
This does not apply to paper shipments, such as letters, correspondence, etc.

Principles

Cargo traveling by aircraft, ship, train, road, etc. to/from the EU (including Switzerland, Norway, and Northern Ireland) must be declared before it is loaded.

• Pre-Loading Advance Cargo Information (PLACI) Required
• EU customs authorities pre-screen shipments for safety and security purposes
• FWB/FHL Data and Additional Information
  – Shipper name/address
  – Consignee name/address
  – Number of shipments
  – Cargo Gross Weight
  – Item information
  – AWB Number (Master/House)
  – HS-Code (6 digits), Harmonized System Code for each cargo item
  – Consignee’s customs number, Economic Operators Registration and Identification number (EORI)

HS-Code, Harmonized System Code

HS-Code is an international standard system code that describes and categorizes goods. Shipments destined for the EU (including Switzerland, Norway, and Northern Ireland) must have the six-digit HS code for the items listed on the commercial invoice forwarded to EU customs authorities before shipment.

EORI Number, Economic Operator Registration and Identification

The EORI is the customs number of the person receiving the goods in the EU (including Switzerland, Norway, and Northern Ireland). It is granted to the consignee (importer or exporter) by the customs of an EU member state. EORI is common across EU member states. You must correctly list the recipient’s EORI in the Commercial Invoices and Shipping application (Shared Trader Interface (STI)).

FAQ

Q. Is there any additional information I need to submit to ICS2?
A. You can avoid customs delays by submitting more accurate and detailed item descriptions when you create commercial invoices. Customs in EU member states may request additional documentation in the item description.

Q. Does ICS2 apply to goods sent to countries that are not members of the EU, such as the UK?
A. When sending goods to countries outside of the EU (including Switzerland, Norway, and Northern Ireland) and transiting through the EU, ICS2 applies.

Q. Is there a dollar limit on items covered by ICS2?
A. ICS2 applies to all items, except documents such as letters, regardless of the value of the item.

👉Learn more about ICS2