GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 24, 2026

Import Control System (ICS)

The Import Control System (ICS) is the European Union's electronic pre-arrival notification procedure, designed to detect security risks before goods physically enter EU customs territory.

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Last updated: 24 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu/customs-4/customs-security/import-control-system-2-ics2_en

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Logistics concept

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1 min

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Definition & Explanation

The Import Control System (ICS) is the European Union's electronic pre-arrival notification procedure, designed to detect security risks before goods physically enter EU customs territory. Carriers are required to submit an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) prior to arrival; deadlines vary by mode of transport – for deep-sea shipments, submission is generally required 24 hours before loading at the port of departure. Customs authorities use the ENS data to run automated risk analysis and can flag high-risk consignments before they cross the border. ICS should not be confused with the Export Control System (ECS), which governs the exit of goods from the EU. Through ICS2, the EU has progressively modernised the original system, enabling more comprehensive data capture at the item level and improved information sharing among member state customs authorities.