The European Union’s (EU) Customs Safety and Security program is the first line of defence against threats posed by illicit traffic in goods across the EU’s external borders. To facilitate free flow of trade through improved data-driven customs security processes, the EU is implementing a new large-scale advance cargo risk management platform: Import Control System 2 (ICS2).
Paolo Gentiloni, EU Commissioner for the Economy, said that ICS2 aims to “help deliver a more efficient and effective risk-based approach to customs controls in our rapidly evolving supply chains, while supporting a level playing field and facilitating legitimate trade across our external borders.”
ICS2 in a nutshell
ICS2 is a complete reform of the existing Import Control System (ICS). It collects data linked to all goods entering or transiting the EU, prior to loading for cargo and arrival by mail. By screening for dangerous and illicit goods, ICS2 enhances risk management and ensures goods arriving in the EU are safe and secure. Economic Operators (EOs), such as air cargo carriers, postal operators, and freight forwarders, will submit safety and security data to customs authorities in the form of an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS).
ICS2 will be operational in three releases, each affecting different EOs and modes of transport:
When Release 2 goes into effect next spring, air freight will be subject to pre-loading ENS data requirements, in addition to pre-arrival filing requirements. This will have a significant impact on operational processes as air carriers must transmit safety and security data in advance to customs authorities. Air forwarders need to either file themselves or arrange to have it done by the carrier. Release 3 will impact remaining modes of transport.
Enabling ICS2 compliance
In addition to adapting business processes to reflect Release 2 requirements, developing or updating IT systems is crucial to ensuring the streamlined exchange of high-quality, precise ENS data; especially considering that timely access to accurate data is critical. Using advanced technology can help carriers overcome the complexity of compliance by providing a single point of access to manage ICS2 filings. Air cargo carriers need to prepare now, ahead of the anticipated deadline, and plan to test with solution providers. (N.B.: carriers and forwarders can begin testing with Descartes in Summer 2022.)
If air carriers are not prepared to submit accurate and thorough ENS data by the March 2023 deadline, consignments and freight will be stopped at the EU Customs border and the goods in question will not be cleared. Poor quality or inadequate declarations will either be rejected or subject to intervention, with possible sanctions imposed for non-compliance.
While maintaining compliance with evolving customs regulations can be complicated, air carriers that update technology, systems, and processes in line with ICS2 requirements, in advance of the release deadlines, can ensure that goods will continue to flow efficiently into the EU.
Jos Nuijten
VP Product Management
