Starting September 1st, all road and rail shipments entering or transiting through the EU will be subject to new safety and security regulations under ICS2 — the updated Import Control System.

This applies to shipments moving from Great Britain into both the Republic of Ireland and mainland Europe, as well as those passing through the EU on their way to a third country. Northern Ireland will also fall under the scope of ICS2, as per EU customs rules.

The ICS2 requires an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) to be submitted electronically on UK exports before goods reach the EU border, similar to the S&SGB process that is already in place for imports arriving into Great Britain.

The declaration must include comprehensive details such as the consignor and consignee information, valid EU EORI numbers, HS codes, weight, packaging details, and routing information.

Of important note is the requirement for more precise descriptions of goods. We understand that vague descriptions are likely to be rejected and entry to the EU will be refused.

As ever with the introduction of new regulations, there is the possibility of a little disruption to services in the first few days of implementation and if that is the case we will advise further.

Should you require further information on the above, our road freight team are available to guide you through these changes or to provide you with further information on our European services.

If you have any questions regarding the above, then Westbound are here to help. So, please do not hesitate to contact us.