Import Control System 2

Enhancing supply chain security and safety, Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is the Import Control system for movements both ways between the UK and the EU, including Norway, Switzerland, and Northern Ireland.

Based on similar worldwide systems that pre-declare shipments, to determine risk, security and safety of the cargo, ICS2 is the EU’s advanced cargo information system, which has been rolling out since 2021. 

The process has long been in place from the Far East and USA, with responsibility of making a declaration to the first European port of call of the vessel, for all goods entering, moving through or leaving the EU before they arrive. This system helps EU customs authorities ensure security and safety, and compliance is crucial to avoid delays, scrutiny, and penalties.

The full scope of data to be provided now include the commodity code (to 6 digits), a clear and plain description of the product, and the consignees EORI.

Given that the description and commodity code will reflect all the goods within the shipment then the declaration has the ability, for full container loads of multiple SKUs to become quite cumbersome.

One of the key pieces of data is around establishing credibility of the consignee, this is done through the EORI which can be checked to determine the establishment of a company in the EU.

Without an EORI it will raise a red flag to the destination authorities. The process is due to be introduced on the 1st October of this year,

Key Benefits of ICS2
ICS2 aims to secure the EU’s supply chain and streamline customs procedures by:

– Accurately identifying high-risk consignments and allowing proactive intervention
– Facilitating faster, smoother cross-border clearance, reducing delays and costs
– Simplifying information exchange between Economic Operators (EOs) and EU Customs Authorities

Enhanced Data Requirements
With ICS2 Release 3, exporters must provide comprehensive information about goods, including their origin, destination, and specific attributes. This enhanced data collection improves risk assessment and overall security measures in global trade.

Who is Affected?
ICS2 affects all Economic Operators (any business or other organisation which supplies goods, works or services) involved in handling, shipping, and transporting cargo. They must submit safety and security data to the ICS2 portal via the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS). Manufacturers and exporters outside the EU must provide necessary information to their freight forwarder or carrier.

Implementation Phases
ICS2 is being implemented in three releases, with Release 3 launched on 3 June 2024. This includes maritime carriers, express operators, and air cargo operators. Release 3 will proceed in three phases:

– 3rd June 2024: Maritime and inland waterways carriers
– 1st October 2024 EORI number required for EU consignees
– 4th December 2024: Maritime and inland waterways house-level filers
– 1st April 2025: Road and rail carriers

Exporter Obligations
Exporters must provide detailed information about their shipments to carriers, including:

– A 6-digit Harmonised System Code
– A complete and accurate commercial description of the goods
– The EORI number of all parties involved, registered in the EU
– Additional details of parties involved, such as the seller, buyer, and consignee

By meeting these requirements, exporters help facilitate accurate risk assessments and enhance overall security.

Conclusion
Understanding and complying with ICS2 is essential for anyone involved in exporting to the EU. By providing detailed and accurate shipment information, you can help ensure smoother customs procedures and contribute to a more secure global supply chain, while avoiding delays, scrutiny, and penalties.

When the ENS information is not provided to EU customs, shipments will be stopped and will not be processed for customs clearance, which will lead to delays and potential fines.

We can guide you on the ICS2 changes, help you to educate your suppliers and provide full support for all your import and export documentary needs.

Metro are at the forefront of customs brokerage solutions, with our automated CuDoS declaration platform and dedicated team of customs experts, reacting swiftly to any changes in the UK and EU’s trading regimes.

To learn more about ICS2, or to see how we can simplify and automate customs declarations for your businesses, please EMAIL Andy Fitchett, Brokerage Manager.