Import Control System 2 (ICS2) for Cargo

Resource Center

This resource center includes information regarding the EU Import Control System 2 (ICS2) requirements for cargo. We encourage you to bookmark this page and to check back often for updated information.

What is ICS2 for Cargo?

The EU Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is an advanced security filing requirement. Starting on December 4, 2024, forwarders will need to begin testing with ICS2 for maritime shipments, including house bill level filing. Since some carriers will no longer be filing house bill level details on behalf of the forwarder, this means that forwarders will need to take responsibility for this process themselves.

What Do We Know About ICS2 for Cargo? 

Required Prior to Loading
In order to comply with the time-driven filing provisions of the ICS2 regulation, a filing prior to cargo loading is required

Requires 24/7 Operations
ICS2 calls for continuous operations in order to enable compliance with pre-loading and pre-arrival— subject to requests for information, screening, or do-not-load instructions

It Is a Complex Regulation
Requirements include HS code(s), packaging and weights, consignee/ consignor details, and data that is linked post-arrival to the Temporary Storage (TS)/Presentation Notifications

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What Are the Challenges for Cargo Operations?

The Import Control System 2 (ICS2) requires not only connectivity to government agencies and filing within specified timeframe, but also calls for tight communication between parties. Some key challenges to meet ICS2 Requirements include:

Visibility & Control
Since what a carrier files is dependent on the forwarder filing; visibility, control, and information-sharing can be challenging
New Data Elements
Determining, managing, and collecting the data elements required for ICS2 compliance is complex and time-consuming

Process Challenges
From managing real-time data to complicated subsequent filings, technology is needed to better optimize processes

How Does ICS2 Impact Operations for Freight Forwarders?

Due to the high level of interest in the new EU ICS2 regulation, Descartes has put together a resource center on ICS2 specifically for freight forwarders and NVOCCS

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Descartes Has You Covered for ICS2 for Cargo

Our Technology Can Help You Comply with Security Filing Requirements Worldwide

EU Import Control System 2 ICS2 ICS

As a long-standing innovator in technology for the cargo industry, Descartes is at the leading edge of ICS2 compliance. Our solutions are built based upon consultative efforts between carriers, forwarders, and customs agencies to ensure compliance requirements are exceeded.

Descartes technology streamlines data sharing to enable multi-party collaboration, reduces the risk of submission errors and delays, improves filing efficiency and productivity, enhances customer service with real-time shipment and clearance statuses, and responds to exceptions with robust reporting and alerts.

Descartes technology is also extensible. Our solutions are modeled with a standard and scalable architecture to support similar security filing initiatives, including ICS2 for mail, and others globally.

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A Seamless Data Flow to Enable Compliance​

Descartes systems can work together transmit ICS2 information to regulatory agencies, update forwarders’ internal platforms as well as populate carrier systems with status messages, requests for information, and other data. Alternately, we offer a web-based stand-alone platform to enter and manage ICS filings by exception. Here is how the data flow works for air cargo as an example:

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