ICS2 System Guide

01What is ICS2?

ICS2 (Import Control System 2) is the European electronic import control system for goods entering the EU customs territory. It replaces and supplements the older ICS and introduces uniform rules for advance declaration of goods – before they arrive at the border – to ensure security and compliance with customs regulations.

The aim is earlier identification of risky consignments, faster passage for trusted goods and transparency for all actors in the chain: carriers, forwarders, customs offices and traders.

02Main Components of the ICS2 Process

1. Entry Summary Declaration (ENS)

The ENS (Entry Summary Declaration) is a mandatory electronic message that must be lodged before goods arrive at the EU customs territory. It contains data on the consignment, carrier, route, and goods. Upon successful acceptance, the system assigns an MRN (Master Reference Number) that tracks the consignment until it arrives at the border. Deadlines depend on the mode of transport (e.g. road: at least 1 hour before arrival).

2. Presentation message (IE3G301)

After the ENS has been lodged, when the goods physically arrive at the border crossing, a national presentation message (IE3G301) is submitted. This officially notifies customs that the goods are available for control. Without it, the customs procedure is not complete.

3. Customs decisions and S&S control

Based on the ENS and safety and security risk analysis, customs take a decision: clearance to cross the border, request for further information (RfI), referral for physical control, or in the worst case, a Do Not Load (DNL) order. Everything is done electronically via the STI (Single Window) system.

04Mode of Transport and Types of Declarations

ICS2 applies to all goods entering the EU, with specific rules on deadlines and formats depending on the mode of transport:

• Road and rail (ICS2 Release 3) – ENS and presentation message mandatory; deadlines strictly set (e.g. 1 hour before arrival for road).
• Maritime and air – different deadlines and technical requirements, but the same principle of advance declaration and presentation.
• Postal and express consignments – specific message types depending on the type of consignment; all go through ICS2.

05How Our Application Helps

The KSW ICS2 application enables carriers and forwarders to lodge ENS declarations, send presentation messages and track status in one place – without the need for multiple systems or manual XML handling.