# ICS2 Filing

*Last updated: 2026-06-26*

> Before a consignment from a third country reaches the EU's external border, an ICS2 filing must be submitted electronically under the European Import Control System 2 (ICS2).

Before a consignment from a third country reaches the EU's external border, an ICS2 filing must be submitted electronically under the European Import Control System 2 (ICS2). Responsibility for filing falls on the carrier, freight forwarder, or shipper depending on transport mode and role; deadlines differ accordingly across air, sea, road, and rail. The commodity and shipment data transmitted – substantially more granular than under the predecessor ICS, down to item level – enable customs authorities to conduct risk analysis and decide on release or intervention before physical arrival. A late or incomplete filing can result in the consignment being refused at the border crossing or held up at significant cost. ICS2 filings should not be confused with the full customs declaration for release into free circulation, which is lodged only after the goods arrive.

**Source:** [https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu/customs-4/customs-security/import-control-system-2-ics2_en](https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu/customs-4/customs-security/import-control-system-2-ics2_en)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | ICS2 Filing |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 135 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-26 |
| Source | https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu/customs-4/customs-security/import-control-system-2-ics2_en |

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