Keeping abreast with EU’s new import control system 2 (ICS2)
By World Courier
*Updated for Release 3 of ICS2
On March 1, 2023, the European Union (EU) launched Release 2 of their Import Control System 2 (ICS2) for goods transported by air to EU-27 destinations plus Northern Ireland, Norway, and Switzerland.
The Import Control System 2 is the second iteration of the electronic customs import system for the EU. This upgraded IT system was created to collect data about all goods entering the EU prior to their arrival. ICS2 aims to better protect the European single market and its citizens with new customs safety and security measures. This in turn will facilitate the free flow of trade through improved data-driven customs security processes that are adapted to global business models.
ICS2 is required for all shipments transiting via any EU country as well as Northern Ireland, Norway, and Switzerland — even if the final destination is not a part of the EU, for example, a shipment from Asia to the UK, where the goods are transiting via any EU country.
ICS2 introduced more efficient and effective EU customs security and safety capabilities that:
- Increases protection of EU citizens and the internal market against security and safety threats.
- Allow EU customs authorities to better identify high-risk consignments and intervene at the most appropriate point in the supply chain.
- Support proportionate, targeted customs measures at the external borders in crisis response scenarios.
- Facilitate cross-border clearance for legitimate trade.
- Simplify the exchange of information between Economic Operators and EU Customs Authorities.
What is Release 3 of ICS2?
On June 3, 2024, Release 3 of ICS2 commenced, expanding the system to go beyond only air shipments. It now also covers shipments by road, rail, and sea. This is a staggered roll-out, scheduled to be concluded by September 1, 2025.
What does this mean for you, a World Courier customer?
To avoid delays when shipping into any ICS2 participating countries, it is recommended you have the following information to hand:
- The consignees’ Trader ID number:
- Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number if within the EU or Northern Ireland
- A standardized business number (UID) if within Switzerland
- A Norwegian organization (ORG.NO) number if within Norway
- Your 6-digit HS code on an item level — necessary for both shipments to and transiting via ICS2 participating countries. To expedite the process, it is recommended to supply this code regardless of the destination as the route is unknown before receiving the order.
