The European Union's Import Control System 2 (ICS2) aims to improve the security of goods entering the EU by introducing a standardised pre-arrival customs process for all modes of transport, including road, in addition to existing air, sea and inland waterway requirements. By requiring the submission of accurate and complete entry summary declaration data prior to arrival, ICS2 enables customs authorities to better assess the risks associated with incoming goods, thereby improving the EUability to prevent and combat customs infringements ultimately ensuring a safer trading environment.

From 1 April 2025, road hauliers will be required to provide data on goods shipped to or through the EU prior to their arrival, via a complete ENS . This obligation also affects postal and express carriers who transport goods using these modes of transport, as well as other parties, such as logistics providers. Under certain circumstances, final recipients established in the EU will also be required to submit ENS data to ICS2.

Economic operators who are not ready by this date should contact the national service of the EU Member State (national customs authority) where they have registered and obtained their EORI number, to request a deployment window no later than 1 March 2025. Windows are provided upon request only. In the case of Spain, you must request it at ics.helpdesk@correo.aeat.es

To comply with ICS2 requirements, affected businesses will need to ensure they collect accurate and complete data from their customers, update their IT systems and operational processes, and provide appropriate training to their staff. Economic operators will also have to successfully complete a self-compliance test before connecting to ICS2, to verify their ability to access and exchange messages with customs authorities. Goods could be stopped at EU borders and not cleared by customs authorities if traders do not comply with ICS2 requirements in time.

ICS2 in detail

ICS2 has been developed in close collaboration between the European Commission, Member States' customs authorities and businesses. As of 1 September 2025, ICS1 will be phased out and ICS2 will completely replace ICS1 with a completely new business process in accordance with the Union Customs Code.

The European Commission organises monthly webinars (in English) where economic operators can ask questions on the operational and technical aspects of ICS2.

More information can be found in the public group CIRCABC .

For more information

More on ICS2 can be found on the European Commission website ( ), including factsheets detailing the requirements for all modes of transport and the steps to take to prepare for ICS2. All necessary technical documentation can be consulted at CIRCABC.

Additionally, the AEAT publishes guides and information on its electronic headquarters. Specifically, in the specific section in the Electronic Office of the Tax Agency where all the information available in relation to these systems is collected: Customs/Entry and exit of goods/Summary declarations. The ENS and EXS .