INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
ENS Filing for ICS2: Everything You Need to Know
Feb 10, 2025
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The Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) is a crucial component of the Import Control System 2 (ICS2), ensuring that customs authorities receive essential security and risk assessment data before shipments enter the EU. Understanding filing requirements for ENS is needed to avoid delays, penalties, and disruptions in your supply chain.
What is ENS Filing?
ENS is a mandatory electronic declaration that must be submitted before goods are loaded onto transport destined for the EU. It enables customs authorities to conduct pre-loading and pre-arrival risk assessments to enhance supply chain security.
Who Needs to File ENS?
ENS must be submitted by:
Air Carriers and Freight Forwarders – for air cargo shipments
Express Couriers and Postal Operators – for parcels and postal consignments
Maritime, Rail, and Road Carriers – for sea, rail, and road transport under ICS2 Phase 3
Importers and Logistics Providers – who may be responsible for parts of the ENS dataset in multiple ENS filing scenarios
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How ENS Filing Works Under ICS2
Single vs. Multiple ENS Filing
Single ENS Filing – The carrier submits the complete ENS dataset.
Multiple ENS Filing – Different supply chain participants submit parts of the ENS dataset separately. These filings are linked together in the ICS2 system to form a complete ENS declaration.
Key ENS Data Requirements
Each ENS filing must include:
✅ EORI Number – A unique identifier for the declarant
✅ Detailed Product Descriptions – Vague descriptions may result in customs holds
✅ Consignee Details – Accurate recipient information
✅ Transport & Routing Information – Clear shipment details
Common ENS Filing Mistakes and what they lead to:
❌ Incorrect or vague product descriptions → Customs rejections and delays
❌ Late ENS submissions → Risk of penalties and shipment holds
❌ Uncoordinated multiple ENS filings → Data mismatches causing clearance issues
How to Ensure ENS Compliance
Use Automated Customs Solutions – Manual ENS filing increases risks of errors. Platforms like x7trade automate ENS submissions and minimize mistakes.
Coordinate with Supply Chain Partners – Clear communication between carriers, importers, and freight forwarders is critical.
Stay Updated on ICS2 Regulations – Compliance requirements evolve, and businesses must stay informed to avoid disruptions.
Our solution, x7trade, supports both Single and Multiple ENS Filing, allowing airlines and freight forwarders to submit ENS declarations efficiently and independently when needed.
To see how our solution works, book a demo at x7trade.com today!