Customer Update – Important customer announcement: ICS2
8 November 2024
Dear valued customer,
In order to provide you with the best support for your future shipments, we would like to inform you about the upcoming changes to the EU Customs Advanced Filing process, known as ICS2. These regulations are part of the EU’s efforts to enhance security and streamline customs procedures for goods entering the European Union.
What is ICS2?
ICS2 (Import Control System 2) is an updated customs pre-arrival safety and security program that will replace the current ICS system. This update introduces new requirements for the submission of Entry Summary Declarations (ENS) for all modes of transport, including rail, road, and maritime.
What Does This Mean to You?
Enhanced Data Requirements:
Shippers will be obliged to provide the following:
- More detailed information will be required for shipments entering the EU.
- We will require all customers shipping with us to declare whether they will use house filing, or multiple filing in terms of the supplementary declaration.
- If using house filing, this includes:
- Data about the consignor/seller, consignee/buyer, including contact details (a name and email address)
- A detailed description of the goods (A 6-digit HS code) including weights
- If using multiple filing this includes:
- Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) of the supplementary agent
- a detailed description of the goods (A 6-digit HS code) including weights

This will also have an impact on how you book your orders either through the portal or through EDI with us. For EDI orders, we will return to you as soon as possible with an indication how the above required information will need to be programmed in your EDI message to us in order for Samskip to be able to process your input.
In case you provide your data via our customer portal, then please find below screen prints as to where your input can be registered.
Please do note we will not be able to support manual updates of these ENS data and in case you cannot supply these through EDI, you are required to update this information on the MySamskip Customer Portal.
Please view below screenshots showing how you will see the Customer Portal and the sections you will need to update and complete:



Pre-Loading and Pre-Arrival Filing:
- Carriers must submit an ENS (Entry Summary Declaration) before goods are loaded onto a vessel, aircraft, or train destined for the EU (pre-loading).
- Another ENS is required before arrival in the EU (pre-arrival).
Increased Security Measures:
- The aim is to enhance the EU’s ability to identify high-risk shipments before they enter the customs territory, improving overall security.
How Samskip is Supporting You:
At Samskip, we understand that these changes may seem challenging, but rest assured, we are here to support you every step of the way. Here’s how we are preparing to ensure a smooth transition:
System Upgrades:
- We are upgrading our systems to be fully compliant with ICS2 requirements, ensuring that all necessary data is accurately and timely submitted.
Expert Training:
- Our team is being trained in the new regulations and procedures to provide you with the best possible support and guidance.
Seamless Operations:
- By integrating these changes into our operations and customs clearance teams, we aim to maintain the reliability and efficiency you expect from Samskip.
We will of course stay on top of the new ICS2 regulations as they develop and keep you posted. Please note, that should we experience additional costs as a consequence of the new regulations, it may be necessary to apply a fee to impacted cargo by adjusting our rates or surcharges accordingly.
Partner with Us:
Work closely with our team to provide the necessary shipment information and meet the ICS2 requirements.
We are committed to making this transition as smooth as possible for you and continue to offer reliable, flexible services. Should you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact your Samskip representative.
Thank you for your continued trust in us. Together, we will navigate these changes and continue to drive forward with our commitment to excellence and sustainability.
Kind regards,
Your Samskip Customer Service & Sales Teams





