On May 16, 2024, the IRU, alongside other international transport and logistics associations, issued a warning to companies involved in the movement of goods to or through the EU, Norway, Switzerland, and Northern Ireland, across all modes of transport (sea, road, or rail). The focus is on the new Import Control System (ICS2) that the EU will introduce starting from June 2024.
ICS2 is an enhanced security regime jointly introduced by EU customs authorities, requiring the provision of specific details on imported goods before loading or arrival at the Union's border. These requirements were introduced for air transport in 2023 and will be extended to maritime transport from June 2024, and to imports arriving by road or rail in 2025. The new and extensive data demands include six-digit HS codes for each item in a shipment, an "acceptable description," and detailed information on the buyer and seller.
Failure to comply with ICS2 requirements will result in delays and disruptions in imports to the European Union and potentially, in accordance with member states' practices, fines and penalties for those responsible for submitting security data to ICS2. The associations, each representing different parts of the supply chain, urge the companies involved to begin preparations immediately for the extension of ICS2 and to seek further information on how they will be affected. The European Commission's website is the best starting point.
