The deployment of the European Union’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is entering a critical phase for road goods transport. From 1 January 2026, several EU countries will decommission ICS1, meaning Entry Summary Declarations (ENS) for goods entering or transiting through the EU by road must be submitted via ICS2. Further roll‑outs will follow on 1 June 2026. There is no enforcement grace period, so make sure you are ready to avoid delays and penalties.
Countries applying ICS2 for road transport from 1 January 2026 include Ireland, Spain, France, Italy, Lithuania, Hungary, Finland, Greece and Bulgaria. The United Kingdom will also apply ICS2 for Northern Ireland.
From 1 June 2026, Croatia, Latvia, Poland, Romania and Slovakia will follow.
Several countries, including Austria, Germany, Denmark, and others, have already been applying ICS2 since September 2025.
ICS2 is designed to strengthen pre-arrival security by mandating the submission of comprehensive shipment data prior to entry into the EU, thereby enabling customs to conduct advanced risk assessments and mitigate potential threats.
Each consignment will require a separate ENS, filed before arrival at the border. Gathering accurate data from partners and ensuring timely submission will be critical. (....)