R'S WARE
Customs· 2 min read

ICS2: what it is and how it affects you when importing from China

que-es-ics2-importar-china

If you import from China, your forwarder has probably mentioned ICS2. It's a European Union system that affects how your shipments are declared even before they arrive, and it can block your goods if the data isn't correct.

We explain what it is, what it's for and, above all, what you must do as an importer.

What ICS2 is

ICS2 (Import Control System 2) is the European Union's customs safety and security system. It requires information about the goods to be declared before their arrival —and even before loading in some cases— through the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS), so that customs can assess security risks before the shipment enters the EU.

What it's for

Its purpose is not to collect revenue but security: it lets customs detect potential risks in advance (dangerous or illicit goods, etc.). It replaces and extends the old ICS, requiring more data and further in advance.

Who it affects

The obligation to file the ENS falls on those who transport the goods: airlines, shipping lines, courier companies and forwarders. As an importer you don't file the ENS yourself, but you must provide accurate data so the carrier can declare it correctly.

What you should have ready

  • A precise description of the goods: vague descriptions like 'gifts' or 'parts' cause rejections.
  • The tariff (HS) code of at least 6 digits.
  • Complete sender and recipient data, including your EORI number.

The phased rollout

ICS2 has been rolled out in several phases (releases 1, 2 and 3), progressively covering postal and courier shipments, air transport and, lastly, sea and land. Each phase has extended the transport modes and the operators required to comply.

What happens if the data is wrong

An incomplete ENS or one with imprecise descriptions can lead to the shipment being rejected, delays or the goods not even being loaded. That's why the quality of the data you provide to the supplier and carrier is decisive.

How R'S WARE helps you

We make sure the description, classification and data of your goods (including the EORI) are correct and complete from origin, so the ENS is filed properly and your shipment isn't blocked by ICS2.

Related articles