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ICS2 (Import Control System 2) is a new version of the EU’s original Import Control System and brings new requirements to transporters shipping cargo into the EU via sea, road or rail.
Instead of sending the EU ENS directly to the customs office in the country of entry, all member countries will transmit the details to a centralised EU system, the Shared Trader Interface. Moreover, additional information will need to be provided within the EU ENS.
The primary objective of ICS2 is to enhance the safety, security, and supervision of goods entering the EU. ICS2 will be rolled out gradually, with regulations taking effect upon its integration with the system -
- For North Sea (Maritime filing), ICS2 has been in use for a number of months
- Road and rail carriers (RoRo filing) should connect between 1 Apr and 1 Sep 2025
ICS1 requirements
- Vehicle/trailer information
- Route details
- Journey date and time
- IMO (for IE or unaccompanied freight)
- Consignee and consignor details
- Description of goods / 4 digit commodity code
- Package information
Additional information required for ICS2
- Haulier EU or XI EORI number (for accompanied freight) - apply for just one EU or XI EORI number. This must be the EORI number of the territory you will first be importing into
- Importer EU or XI EORI number (if it is a business)
- 6 digit commodity code
The description of the goods must be clear and precise, so the customs officer can clearly identify the goods. E.g. “gear boxes for cars” instead of “car parts”.
Remember, you will also need an EU ENS for transit shipments, personal effects (under a transport contract), empty vehicles (moving under a transport contract) and goods transported under an ATA Carnet.
Take a look at our ICS1 - ICS2 transition comparison guide for full details.
⚠️ Without the correct documentation, you will not be able to travel and may face penalties or delays.
Goods that don’t need any ENS
- Household effects, provided that they are not carried under a transport contract
- Goods for which an oral customs declaration is permitted provided that they are not carried under a transport contract
- NATO Goods moved under cover of the form 302
- Weapons and military equipment brought into the customs territory of the Union by the authorities in charge of the military defence of a Member State, in military transport or transport operated for the sole use of the military authorities
- ATA or CPD carnets - if under a transport contract / operator dependant or transporting into France, you DO need an ENS
