Import Control System 2 – The Next Generation of Import Controls

Up to now, goods introduced into the customs territory of the EU have been monitored and risk-analyzed with the current Import Control System. 

Currently, the first step is to submit an entry summary declaration (ENS) in the relevant national customs declaration system before the goods arrive at the customs office of entry. How far in advance depends on the transport route. In container shipping, for example, the deadline is 24 hours before the goods are loaded onto the ship. The next steps in the current Import Control System are to submit the arrival notification and presentation notification.

Beginning in March 2021, Import Control System 2 will be rolled out in several phases to replace the old system. The first phase involves the migration of mail and express shipments imported into the EU via air freight. 

The aim of the EU's new ICS2 project is to adapt or replace the current IT systems to accommodate today's customs law. One new development: A web app and a technical interface for the customs software are being integrated as part of the current EU Customs Trader Portal. Member states can generally offer economic operators their own access to ICS2. However, this could vary per country and access might not be provided by all member states.

Generally, it is the obligation of the transporter to submit the entry summary declaration. ICS2 Release 2 adds the option of multiple filing - allowing multiple operators to each provide some of the data needed to complete an entry summary declaration.

The EU joined with Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Norway to form a common customs security zone under two additional agreements from July 2009. While these countries waive the requirement to provide security data (entry/exit summary declarations) when trading among themselves, Switzerland/Liechtenstein and Norway must still collect this data for imports from outside the EU. That's why ICS2 is being implemented in these countries as well.