As global trade flows evolve, so do the regulatory frameworks that govern them. One such shift is the European Union’s phased rollout of its Import Control System 2 (ICS2), which has now entered a critical stage. ICS2 Release 3, effective from April 1, 2025, introduces new data requirements and responsibilities for freight forwarders moving goods into or through the EU, Northern Ireland, Norway, and Switzerland.
While many forwarders are familiar with earlier ICS2 phases that applied to air cargo, Release 3 expands the scope significantly. It now includes maritime, road, rail, and inland waterways, and requires detailed, pre-arrival security filings at the house bill level. This guide is designed to help freight forwarders understand what ICS2 Release 3 entails and what steps they can take to prepare.
What Is ICS2 Release 3?
ICS2 is the EU’s new customs pre-arrival security and safety program. It replaces the current Import Control System and introduces more advanced risk analysis capabilities. Release 3 specifically requires freight forwarders to submit Entry Summary Declarations (ENS) for all goods transported into the EU, regardless of the mode of transport.
This means that whether goods arrive via sea freight, truck, rail, or multimodal routes, forwarders must now provide detailed information about the shipment, consignee, and cargo contents prior to arrival at the EU border.
Key Requirements for Forwarders
The core change in ICS2 Release 3 is the shift in responsibility. Freight forwarders, especially those handling consolidated shipments, must now:
- Register as house-level filers with EU customs
- Submit ENS filings for each consignment they manage
- Provide accurate data, including:
- A precise goods description
- 6-digit Harmonized System (HS) code
- Consignee and shipper details
- Buyer and seller identifiers (EORI numbers where applicable)
For many forwarders, this will require updates to operational workflows and digital systems.
Learn more from our experts how you can digitalize your freight forwarding & logistics business.
What’s the Timeline?
ICS2 Release 3 went live on April 1, 2025, and includes a progressive deployment window. Businesses are onboarded in phases based on their operational readiness and registration. Early registration ensures more flexibility in deployment timelines, while late onboarding may reduce available testing and transition time.
If you have not yet initiated your onboarding process, it is advisable to begin as soon as possible to avoid disruption.
Preparing for Compliance: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Register as a House-Level Filer
Freight forwarders handling consolidated shipments should register directly with EU customs authorities to submit ENS filings. This ensures you retain control over your operational data.
2. Assess and Upgrade Data Collection Practices
ENS filings under ICS2 require complete and validated data well before goods arrive. Review your data capture processes to ensure timely access to:
- Accurate product descriptions
- HS codes
- Shipper/consignee contact and registration details
3. Enhance System Readiness
A direct connection to EU customs systems (through the Shared Trader Interface) is essential. This may involve:
- Integrating with an IT provider certified for ICS2 filing
- Updating your logistics platform to support ENS submission workflows
4. Train Teams Across Departments
ICS2 isn’t limited to one team—it affects operations, documentation, customer service, and compliance. Ensure cross-functional training is in place so everyone understands the new processes.
5. Engage Your Clients Early
Much of the required data for ENS must come from shippers and consignees. Begin communicating with customers to ensure they understand what’s needed and why these changes are important.
What Forwarders Gain from Early Readiness
Beyond compliance, aligning with ICS2 requirements brings operational benefits:
- Improved data discipline across departments
- Faster border clearance through advance risk assessment
- Enhanced service reliability for EU-bound shipments
Early adopters of ICS2-compliant workflows may also gain trust and preference among global shippers looking for partners who are ready for today’s regulatory standards.
Looking Ahead
ICS2 Release 3 marks a significant evolution in customs and security practices across the European Union. For freight forwarders, it represents both a challenge and an opportunity: a challenge to update existing processes, and an opportunity to strengthen compliance, improve operational efficiency, and demonstrate leadership in a changing logistics landscape.
Taking the time now to prepare your systems, train your teams, and engage your clients will help ensure a smooth transition and continued growth in EU trade lanes.