New EU Customs Regulations: ICS2 and your e-commerce business

New safety and security regulations are being implemented by the EU throughout 2021, starting with Import Control System 2 (ICS2) since March 15. 

The regulations will impact customs procedures and VAT obligations for e-commerce sellers both inside and outside of the EU. With numerous EU directives being introduced this year, Asendia is on hand to keep you up-to-date with all the new regulations and ensure your business remains compliant, so you can continue trading uninterrupted.

• What is ICS2?

ICS2 is a large-scale pre-arrival security and safety programme being implemented across the EU since March 15 2021. It’s designed to make air freight safer and more efficient for all EU residents, as well as making customs processes faster and smoother for goods being shipped cross-border.

• How will ICS2 affect my business?

The main impact of ICS2 will be on the paperwork you need to complete when shipping items both within and outside of the EU and uniform rules now applying to shipments with an intrinsic value of 150 EUR and below.

As of March 15, consignment data and content information required for export and import must be entered electronically by the sender and sent to the country of destination in advance; this is known as Electronic Advance Data or EAD.

An Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) will also need to be provided to customs authorities to assist them in risk assessments prior to the shipment’s arrival in the EU, so they can identify and potentially intercept high-risk consignments.

• When is ICS2 being introduced?

The first phase of ICS2 came into effect on March 15 2021, and will impact a limited number of courier and postal transport in selected EU countries.

From March 2023, all cargo consignments being transported by air freight will require pre-arrival ENS data.

By March 2024, cargo travelling by rail, road and sea will have to submit ENS data, including logistics providers and, in some cases, the consignee (if based in the EU).

• What do I need to do to prepare for ICS2?

As you need to provide data and fill out paperwork electronically, it’s essential you understand exactly which information is required of you, which parcels the new regulations may apply to and communicate with your customers and staff any changes to your service.

• Let Asendia help you

With all the new EU regulations coming into effect, Asendia is working hard to support our customers through the changes. We’ve set up a dedicated web page with FAQs, definitions, and timelines which we will update along the way, so that you have all you need to make sure your business is ready for the changes. For more information, don’t hesitate to contact us.