The Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is a major regulatory change impacting how goods enter the EU customs territory. Implemented in many phases, ICS2 is now becoming mandatory across all transport modes, making compliance also a top priority for businesses involved in eCommerce imports. 

What is ICS2?

ICS2 is an advanced EU customs system designed to enhance security and streamline customs clearance. It requires businesses involved in shipping goods into or through the EU to submit Entry Summary Declarations (ENS) before goods are loaded for transport. The phased implementation means different transport modes have different deadlines for compliance. 

ICS2 Implementation Phases & Key Deadlines

ICS2 has been rolled out in multiple phases, each affecting different stakeholders in the supply chain. Below is a breakdown of the original and revised deadlines: 

Release 1 – Postal and Express Carriers (Air Cargo) 

Initial Date: March 15, 2021 

Postal operators and express carriers were required to provide a minimum dataset in the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) for shipments entering the EU via air. 

Release 2 – All Air Cargo Shipments 

Initial Date: March 1, 2023 

Revised Date: Extended to June 30, 2023, for certain EU member states. 

All air cargo shipments, including general cargo, were required to submit a complete ENS dataset. This expanded ICS2 obligations to Air Cargo. 

Release 3 – Maritime, Rail, and Road Transport  

Initial Date: March 1, 2024 

Revised Deadlines for Different Transport Modes: 

• Maritime & Inland Waterways Carriers: June 3, 2024 

• Maritime House-Level Filers: December 4, 2024 

• Road & Rail Carriers: April 1, 2025 

This phase extends ICS2 requirements to shipments arriving via sea, inland waterways, road, and rail, requiring detailed ENS filings from all relevant economic operators. 

Why These Deadlines Matter

With ICS2 enforcement ramping up, businesses that have not fully implemented compliance measures may face shipment delays, penalties, or rejections.

Key reasons to prepare now: 

✅ EU member states are increasing enforcement – delaying compliance is no longer an option. 

✅ Non-compliance leads to disruptions – missing ENS deadlines can result in cargo holds, increased customs scrutiny, and additional costs. 

✅ Data accuracy is critical – ICS2 requires precise product descriptions, consignee details, and EORI codes. 

How to Ensure Compliance with ICS2 regulations 

To ensure compliance with ICS2 regulations, businesses should take the following steps: 

1. Assess your compliance status – Determine which phase applies to your operations. 

2. Automate ENS filings – Manual submission increases error risks. Consider automated customs clearance solutions like x7trade. 

3. Train your team – Ensure logistics and compliance teams understand ICS2 requirements. 

4. Coordinate with partners – Multiple ENS filing means effective coordination between carriers, freight forwarders, and importers. 

5. Monitor updates from EU authorities – Deadlines may change, and staying informed is essential.

The Future of ICS2 Compliance

As ICS2 becomes fully enforced across all transport modes, businesses must integrate compliance measures into their daily operations. Automation, real-time tracking, and customs-friendly platforms like x7trade will be essential to managing ICS2 filings efficiently. 

Staying ahead of compliance deadlines is critical to avoiding disruptions and ensuring smooth supply chain operations. Businesses should act now to implement automated solutions and streamline their ENS filings. To stay ahead, implement x7trade for your Bulk B2C eCommerce Customs Clearance.

Contact us for more information on how x7trade can help your business!