ICS2 Release 3: What It Means for Cross-Border Trade

The European Union’s latest upgrade to its customs security system is now live. ICS2 Release 3 changes how businesses submit advance cargo information for goods entering or moving through the EU. If your company ships to Europe, especially by air, it’s essential to understand the implications.

The changes affect carriers, postal operators, express couriers, and freight forwarders. And they’re not optional. ICS2 Release 3 is a legal requirement; failing to comply can result in delays or blocked shipments.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this article:

• What ICS2 is and why it matters
• What’s new in ICS2 Release 3
• Who needs to act and by when
• How to stay compliant and avoid shipment delays
• Where to find clear, up-to-date guidance on the ISC2 release

What is ICS2?

ICS2 stands for Import Control System 2. It’s the EU’s digital platform for managing pre-arrival customs data. The goal is to screen goods before they arrive, thereby managing risk more effectively and maintaining EU border security.

ICS2 replaces the old ICS system. But it’s more than just a tech upgrade. It changes what information needs to be submitted, when it needs to be submitted, and by whom.

What’s changing in Release 3?

ICS2 Release 3, launched in June 2024, focuses on general air cargo. The key change: freight forwarders and carriers must now submit detailed shipment data prior to goods entering the EU.

That includes:

• Complete House Waybill (HWB) level data
• Safety and security declarations earlier in the supply chain
• Shared responsibility between multiple actors in the chain

In short: more data, sooner, from more people.

Who does this affect?

Suppose you’re involved in air cargo to the EU in any capacity, especially as a logistics provider, freight forwarder, or third-party shipper. In that case, this applies to you, regardless of your location.

If your shipment passes through the EU on its way to another destination, you’re still affected.

What happens if you’re not ready?

You can expect customs delays, rejected filings, or even blocked shipments. The EU has made it clear: ICS2 is not optional.

Some operators have been granted a short transition period. But the clock is ticking.

What should you do now?

• Review your data systems. Ensure you can collect and submit the correct information.
• Talk to your logistics partners. They may also have new responsibilities under ICS2.
• Read up on the requirements. TheISC2 release page from Landmark Global breaks it down in simple terms.

Summary

ICS2 Release 3 may sound like red tape, but it’s not going away. If you ship to or through Europe, you need to comply. The sooner you understand the system, the smoother your operations will be.

It’s better to adapt now than be caught unprepared later.