ICS2 Extends to Rail and Road Transportation from 1 April, 2025
- Freya Jane
- Director of Customer's Success
From April 1, 2025, rail and road hauliers will be required to submit information about goods travelling to or via the EU prior to their arrival as part of the new EU standard for import security and control systems, known as ICS2. They will be required to submit a complete Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) to the ICS2 in advance.
The Import Control System (ICS2) is an essential part of the EU’s system to improve security and safety for commodities entering or passing through its borders. ICS2, which was first implemented for the inland waterways, air, and maritime carriers, is presently being extended to rail and road transport as of April 1, 2025.
Businesses using these modes of transportation now have additional responsibilities under this update, which requires that all cargo be thoroughly inspected for possible risks prior to arrival.
To prevent delays at customs borders, this expansion will require logistics companies, express carriers, rail and road hauliers, and even final consignees to adjust to the new regulations.
Want to learn more about ICS2? Click here!
Who should prepare for the ICS2 Release 3 update?
The new requirement of ICS2 applies to:
| Rail and road hauliers | Companies transporting goods to or through the EU by rail or road. |
|---|---|
| Logistics providers | Freight forwarders and third-party logistics providers. |
| Express and postal carriers | Companies delivering goods via express or postal services. |
| Final consignees | In some cases, EU-based consignees may also need to provide ENS data. |
Key data requirements for Road & Rail hauliers
Road and rail hauliers must submit the following information for the goods entering the EU from 1 April 2025.
- Consignor and consignee details (names, addresses, EORI numbers)
- Goods description (detailed or commodity code)
- Transport information (mode of transport, journey route, expected arrival time)
- Packaging Details (number and type of packages, total weight)
- The number of packages
What does ICS2 change for Road & Rail hauliers
What will be the consequences of not complying with the requirement?
In case you’re not ready in time, you may encounter the following consequences:
- Goods will be held at the EU customs borders.
- Goods will not be cleared by customs authorities.
- The inadequate declaration will be rejected or subject to amendments, with possible sanctions imposed for non-compliance.
How to be ready for the ICS2 update?
The road and rail hauliers must follow these practices to get ready for the upcoming update:
- Data collection: Companies need to get accurate and comprehensive information from their customers.
- IT System Updates: In order to manage ICS2 data requirements and communication, IT systems must be updated.
- Operational Process Updates: In order to integrate ICS2 procedures, operational processes need to be modified.
- Training: Staff must receive sufficient training on ICS2 regulations and protocols.
- Self-Conformance Testing: Before connecting to ICS2, businesses must pass a self-conformance test. This test confirms their ability to access and communicate with customs officials.
Attention Road & Rail Businesses: ICS2 Deadline Approaching!
Our software can assist you in handling the complications of data collection and entry, real-time tracking, and automated ENS submissions, guaranteeing that your goods travel across EU borders without any interruption.
Get in touch with us right now to find out more about how iCustoms can streamline your ENS procedure!
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