Eimskip is ensuring compliance with the European Union's latest customs legislation, Import Control System 2 (ICS2), which takes effect on 1 April 2024. The new requirements will impact freight forwarders and house filers handling shipments into the EU.
Key Changes Under ICS2
From 1 April 2024, all shipments entering the EU, Northern Ireland, Switzerland, and Norway will require enhanced pre-arrival customs declarations (ENS filings). This means:
- More detailed customs data must be submitted before shipments depart.
- Stricter deadlines for submitting customs data apply.
- Failure to comply may result in shipment delays or refusal to enter the EU.
New Information Requirements
Under ICS2, additional details must be provided according to new deadlines, including:
- 6-digit HS code for all goods.
- Consignee details, including name, address, and EORI number (if applicable).
- Detailed goods descriptions—generic terms like "fruit” will no longer be accepted (e.g., "apples” must be specified).
How Eimskip Supports Customers
Eimskip's Freight Forwarding (FF) operation is prepared to handle the necessary customs filings. However, customers must ensure timely information is provided to avoid customs clearance delays.
ENS Filing Responsibilities
ICS2 filings can be done in a multiple filing, then ENS (Entry Summary Declaration) filings involve two levels:
- The main carrier submits an ENS at the Master Bill of Lading (MBL) level.
- Eimskip, as a Freight Forwarder (FF), can file at the House Bill of Lading (HBL) level when required.
To facilitate ENS filing customers must provide Eimskip with accurate information that may include, pending filing preferences:
- Accurate HS codes for all items in the shipment.
- Complete consignee details (company name, address, and EORI number if applicable).
- A clear and detailed goods description.
- The commercial invoice and packing list are for reference and validation.
Submission Deadlines
To comply with ICS2, shipments must meet the following submission deadlines:
- Deep Sea Shipments: ENS filing at least 24 hours before departure from the last non-EU port or based on local Deep Sea Line requirements.
- Short Sea Shipments: ENS filing at least 2 hours before arrival at an EU port.
Eimskip remains committed to helping customers adapt to these changes and ensuring smooth customs clearance. For more information or assistance with ICS2 compliance, don't hesitate to contact our Freight Forwarding team.