ICS2: Strict enforcement from September 1 – are you prepared?  

From September 1, 2025, full enforcement of the Import Control System 2 (ICS2) will come into effect for road transport to or via the EU. This means that every truck arriving at the EU border must have submitted a complete Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) prior to arrival.

If this declaration is missing or incomplete, the truck will not be allowed to cross the border. In practice, this can lead to significant delays, refusal of entry, and disruption of deliveries. In this blog, we tell you everything about the change to ICS2. 

What is ICS2?

The Import Control System 2 is the updated EU program for safety and security in the flow of goods. It replaces ICS1 and introduces more comprehensive and earlier submission of shipment data.  

The third phase of ICS2, which is now coming into effect, has a major impact: in addition to air and sea freight, road transport, rail transport, and inland waterway transport are now also subject to the ENS obligation. The goal is clear: to identify potential security risks before goods enter the EU.  

What is an ENS?

The Entry Summary Declaration is a digital, pre-arrival declaration containing all essential information about the cargo. It is submitted electronically to EU customs before the goods arrive. The ENS includes:

• Details of the sender and recipient
  
• Description of the goods, including HS codes
  
• Transport information such as truck registration and route
  
• Safety and security information for risk assessment  

An important part of this is the description of the goods. This must clearly state what the goods are, what they are made of, and what they are used for. For branded items, always state the brand and model number and never use only an internal product code. Authorities use this information to determine VAT and import duties and to assess whether the goods are allowed to enter the EU at all. The more specific the description, the less likely there will be questions or delays at the border.

What exactly is changing?

ICS2 not only changes the amount of data, but also the way in which you have to submit it. From now on, you must submit the Arrival Notification (NA) and the ENS via the new Shared Trader Interface (STI). Modified system specifications apply to both declarations. In addition, the ENS now requires additional information, such as:

• The full goods code (HS code)
• Details about the packaging
• And the total weight of the shipment

Some of this information must be made available in advance: the so-called pre-load data. This requires a different way of working and close cooperation with your software supplier. Make sure your systems are adapted in time so that you can connect to the STI without any problems.

Who is affected by this?  

• Road carriers: must ensure that the ENS is submitted in full before arrival at the border.
  
• Freight forwarders: collect and share the necessary data with carriers and shippers in a timely manner.
  
• Customs brokers: submit accurate ENS declarations to EU customs.  

Even shipments that are only transported through the EU on their way to a destination outside the EU are subject to this obligation.  

Why is this important?  

• Operational: a missing or incorrect ENS means delay or refusal at the border.
  
• Financial: delays can lead to fines, additional costs (such as demurrage) and loss of customer confidence.
  
• Process-related: all shipment data must be available earlier in the logistics process, making collaboration and data quality more important than ever.  

IDS keeps your supply chain moving  

As an independent transport coordinator, IDS supports you in the smooth implementation of ICS2. We help you optimize data flows, adapt processes, and minimize risks at the border. This keeps your logistics efficient, compliant, and future-proof.  

Contact us to find out how we can help you comply with ICS2 and strengthen your supply chain.  

That is the power of collaboration. That is the power of IDS.