The EU’s advanced cargo information system, Import Control System 2 (ICS2), aims to improve security in the international transportation of goods and the supply chain. However, the system is posing  “significant challenges” for freight forwarders as the EU bloc enforces stricter customs regulations, according to Nicolette van der Jagt, director general of  CLECAT, the European association representing most freight forwarders and customs agents in Europe.

Starting April 1, all non-EU imports must have an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) submitted by all house-level filers, including freight forwarders, importers, ground handling agents, and others involved in handling shipments. The pre-arrival customs process will now apply to all transport modes – road, rail, air, maritime, and inland waterways.

Despite extensive preparation, forwarders are encountering technical issues, unclear guidance, and insufficient support from national authorities. Van der Jagt noted that difficulties in integrating systems with the new ICS2 requirements have caused delays. “Also, freight forwarders choosing to perform single filings with shipping lines have faced further operational difficulties, including the absence of electronic messaging systems capable of transmitting house-level data to carriers,” she said.

Major carriers are taking a firm stance on compliance. Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk require ENS declarations and valid Movement Reference Numbers (MRNs) before loading containers. Minor errors in data, such as incorrect phone numbers, can lead to shipment delays. Mistakes in the economic operator registration and identification (EORI) numbers may result in customs rejections while non-compliant cargo descriptions, or HS (harmonized system) codes, can also delay clearance.

Source: The Loadstar