Navigating ICS2 Updates and the Role of iCustoms
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Freya Jane
- Director of Customer's Success
The European Union’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is reshaping how goods enter the EU, and a major compliance deadline is now fast approaching: 1 September 2025.
Businesses that fail to meet the latest ICS2 requirements risk delays, penalties, and disruption to supply chains. ICS2 introduces a centralised cargo data system that enhances security, modernises customs clearance, and requires businesses to act decisively.
Three phases are being used to implement ICS2:
- Phase 1: March 15, 2021
- Phase 2: March 1, 2023
- Phase 3: June 3, 2024 – September 1, 2025
Phase 3 is rolled out in stages, affecting different modes of transport and actors in the supply chain.
- Step 1: Maritime and Inland Waterway Carriers (June 3, 2024 – December 4, 2024).
- Step 2: Maritime and Inland Waterway House Level Filers (December 4, 2024 – April 1, 2025).
- Step 3: Road and Rail Carriers (April 1, 2025 – September 1, 2025).
From 1 September 2025, ICS2 becomes fully mandatory. Operators who were granted a deployment window must complete the transition by this date; ICS1 will no longer be accepted.
Comprehending ICS2: The Novel Customs Clearance Environment
ICS2 brings about several significant modifications to the customs clearance process, such as:
- Required Goods Pre-Declaration: Prior to their arrival, all economic operators importing products into the EU are required to submit electronic pre-declarations for their commodities.
- Enhanced Risk Assessment: Customs officials will use information from pre-declarations to evaluate each shipment’s risk and apply specific risk-based measures.
- Electronic Clearing: In order to cut down on paperwork and speed up the clearing procedure, compliant traders can electronically clear their goods.
ICS2 3 Phase Rollout
- Phase 1 (March 1, 2023): During this phase, the fundamental components of ICS2, such as the requirements for items pre-declaration for both air and marine cargo, were established.
- Phase 2 (September 1, 2023): This phase expanded the scope of ICS2 to include consignments sent by mail and express as well as items shipped by rail and vehicle.
- Phase 3 (June 3, 2024): In this phase, all freight carried by inland waterways, sea, rail, and road must submit an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS). This includes logistic providers issuing transport documents to their clients and postal and express carriers that transport goods using these modes of transportation. In some cases, final consignees established in the EU will also be required to submit ENS data to ICS2.
These modifications aim to improve security by detecting and mitigating potential risks at an early stage of the customs clearance procedure. Businesses must carefully plan ahead and use the right tools and technology in order to comply with ICS2.
iCustoms's Role in ICS2 Compliance: A Reliable Business Partner
Leading customs declaration platform iCustoms plays a vital role in assisting companies in navigating the challenges of ICS2 compliance. In order to simplify the ICS2 compliance procedure, iCustoms provides an extensive range of tools and services, such as:
- Automated Goods Pre-Declaration: iCustoms ensures accuracy and ICS2 compliance by automating the creation and submission of electronic pre-declarations.
- Assistance with Risk Assessment: iCustoms offers risk assessment tools and advice to businesses so they may recognise possible problems and efficiently reduce risks.
- Electronic Clearance Facilitation: Businesses may clear their goods more quickly and efficiently thanks to iCustoms’ simplification of electronic clearance procedures.
- Ongoing Compliance Help: To make sure that businesses stay updated on ICS2 regulations and maintain compliance, iCustoms provides ongoing help and training.
ICS2 Phase 3: Preventive Steps for a Smooth Transition
As the third phase of ICS2 draws near, businesses have to be proactive in order to guarantee a seamless transition:
- Get familiar with the Phase 3 requirements: Examine in detail the third phase’s criteria, particularly the submission of a complete Entry Summary Declaration (ENS).
- Assess your oreparation: Determine whether aspects of your current customs clearance procedures need to be adjusted in order to comply with ICS2 regulations.
- Update your IT system: Operators must update their business processes and IT systems to meet ENS data filing and submission requirements and provide appropriate training to their staff members.
- Self-conformance test: It is compulsory for operators to run self-conformance testing prior to starting operation. To get the in-depth procedure, visit this: Self-conformance testing organisation document.
- Adopt iCustoms Solutions: To automate pre-declaration, expedite electronic clearance, and assist with ENS submission and risk assessment, put iCustoms’ extensive array of tools and services into practice.
- Seek advice from professionals: Speak with iCustoms specialists to get personalised guidance and assistance in managing ICS2 compliance and streamlining your customs clearance procedures.
Learn more about ICS2 Release 3 about Freight Forwarders with our detailed guide.
Gain a Competitive Edge in International Trade with the Help of iCustoms
With the 1 September 2025 ICS2 deadline rapidly approaching, businesses must act now to fully adopt ICS2 to ensure uninterrupted trade flows and maintain a competitive edge in the global marketplace. Delays or non-compliance can result in costly shipment holds and penalties, damaging reputation and profitability.
As a reliable partner on this journey, iCustoms provides businesses with comprehensive solutions and steadfast assistance to help them navigate the complexity of ICS2 compliance and streamline their customs-clearing procedures.
Talk to iCustoms specialists right now to see how their solutions may help your company manage ICS2 challenges and maximise the efficiency of customs clearance.
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