What is ICS2 ? Filing and Why It Matters
ICS2 is the EU’s pre-arrival cargo data filing system, requiring all inbound shipments to submit an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) before loading or departure, depending on the transport mode.
HS code-level
cargo details
Consignee/consignor
EORI numbers
Accurate routing info and
goods description
Pre-loading risk assessment filings
(PLACI) for air cargo
ICS2 Filing Deadline: What Happens on Sept 1, 2025?
From Sept 1, 2025:
- All transport modes (air, sea, road, rail) must comply
- ICS1 is phased out completely
- Filings must occur before goods depart for the EU
Consequences of Non-Compliance:
- Delays at the first EU entry point
- Cargo held for further inspection or rejected
- Potential fines and loss of customer trust
Who Must File ICS2 for U.S. Shipments?
ICS2 requires filing by one of the following parties:
- Carrier (airline, ocean carrier)
- Freight Forwarder or NVOCC
- Logistics Service Provider acting on behalf of the exporter/importer
If you're unsure who files ICS2 for your shipments, you’re already at risk.
Common Misconceptions That Put Your Cargo at Risk
| Misconception | Reality |
|---|---|
| ICS2 only applies to air cargo | ICS2 applies to all modes as of Sept 1, 2025 |
| My carrier handles it automatically | Not always — check responsibilities in your contract |
| ICS2 is only a customs formality | It's a legal requirement; non-compliance leads to delays |
The Urgency for U.S. Exporters: Why You Must Act Now
The EU is tightening controls, and customs systems are now automated to reject shipments lacking valid ICS2 data. Many U.S. exporters still:
- Lack of awareness of ICS2's full scope
- Rely on outdated ICS1 processes
- Don’t have automation systems to file ENS quickly
Info-X helps you fix that.
Key Pain Points We Solve:
- Uncertainty over who is responsible for filing
- Errors in HS code mapping and description
- Incomplete consignee info
- Failure to meet advance filing deadlines
How to Ensure ICS2 Compliance Before the Deadline
Identify responsible filing parties (carrier, FF, broker)
Ensure all ENS data is available and validated
File ENS at the correct point (before loading for air, before departure for ocean/rail)
Work with an expert ICS2 filing partner like Info-X
Why Info-X is Your ICS2 Filing Expert
Our ICS2 Filing Service Includes:
- ENS data capture from commercial documents
- EDI/API integration with your systems
- Automated data validation checks
- Filing submission to EU customs via certified platforms
- Ongoing support to handle updates, corrections, and inquiries
Don’t let a compliance issue become a business loss — let Info-X handle your ICS2 filings with precision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. If you're shipping into or via the EU, you must file ICS2-compliant ENS data regardless of origin.
It depends on the terms of sale (Incoterms). Typically, the carrier or forwarder files, but exporters are responsible for ensuring it’s done.
Shipments can be held at entry, inspected, or even rejected. EU systems will flag non-compliant ENS automatically.
With Info-X, filings can be done in minutes once the data is ready. We streamline ENS generation via automation.
Commercial invoice, packing list, HS codes, consignee/consignor info, routing details, and carrier details.
Schedule a Call with ICS2 Filing Experts at Info-X
Don’t wait until your cargo is stuck at the EU border. Partner with Info-X today and ensure ICS2 compliance well before the deadline.
Talk to Info-X ICS2 Filing Experts