Important upcoming changes to EU customs requirements

The EU is introducing new customs data requirements

The Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is an IT system that the European Union has introduced to collect data about all goods entering the EU prior to their arrival.

The system aims to enhance safety and security in the EU by enabling customs authorities to identify high-risk shipments and intervene where needed.

From 1st March 2023, all carriers transporting goods to or through the EU by air must submit certain required data to EU customs electronically, before loading goods onto the plane.

The following critical information is required:

• Shipper details including EORI number
• Receiver details including EORI number (if destined for the EU)
• HS code
• Acceptable goods description
• Number of packages
• Gross weight/unit and quantity

Shipments sent without this information will be delayed as the carrier will not be able to load the goods onto the plane.

Please note that this will also affect shipments going to non-EU destinations if they are routed via the carriers’ European hub.

Credit: Guillaume Périgois

What do I need to do?

It is more important than ever that the descriptions you provide for your goods are as detailed as possible, avoiding vague language. For each item, you should specify what the item is, what it's made of, and what it's for, if this is not immediately clear.

The good news, though, is that we already collect all of this required information as standard when you book with us. So if you use the customs invoice we generate for you, there will be no additional requirements. Just remember, accuracy matters!

If you use your own customs invoice, you will need to ensure that you include all of this information on the invoice to avoid shipment delays.

We’ve got some exciting new features on the horizon, and you will soon be able to save and manage item descriptions for quick access when booking – making it easier to keep up with customs compliance and saving you time!

Where can I find out more?

You can visit the European Commission website for more detailed information on the ICS2.

If you have any questions about your bookings, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Call our team on 0345 145 1212, email [email protected], or use Live Chat.

We’re available 8am-6:30pm Monday-Friday, 9am-1pm Saturday (excluding bank holidays).