# Customs Electronic Filing

*Last updated: 2026-06-23*

> Unlike traditional paper-based submissions, electronic customs filing transmits declaration data in structured, machine-readable format directly to the customs authority's system.

Unlike traditional paper-based submissions, electronic customs filing transmits declaration data in structured, machine-readable format directly to the customs authority's system. In the EU, national portals – such as Germany's ATLAS – are integrated into union-wide platforms like NCTS for transit procedures and ICS2 for entry declarations. Manual data entry and physical paperwork are largely eliminated, and automated risk screening takes place before goods even arrive. Electronic filing is mandatory throughout the EU and enables pre-clearance as well as simplified customs procedures. For freight forwarders, this translates into shorter dwell times and more predictable clearance windows – provided that approved software and correctly structured datasets are in place.

**Source:** [https://www.cbp.gov/trade/automated](https://www.cbp.gov/trade/automated)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Customs Electronic Filing |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 107 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-23 |
| Source | https://www.cbp.gov/trade/automated |

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