The security programme ICS2 is being introduced in three releases: for postal operators and express carriers, Release 1 of ICS2 was already implemented in March 2021. Release 2, from 1 March 2023, now includes all air cargo and airmail flown from outside Europe to or via an EU country. Ocean, rail and road freight will follow in Release 3 on 1 March 2024.
Under ICS1, airlines were required to submit an entry summary declaration (ENS) for every master air waybill (MAWB) four hours before the arrival of the cargo. ICS2 now requires in addition the pre-loading advance cargo information (PLACI) at HAWB (house air waybill) level as soon as possible or at the latest before the goods are pre-loaded on the aircraft.
The shipper is responsible for ensuring that the information provided by the receiver is correct and complete. Incorrect or missing information may result in refusal to load at the airport of origin, sanctions or even additional costs, such as storage, to be borne by both parties. To avoid this, shippers should proactively check the required information against the European tax and customs union database.
As an experienced logistics provider, we recommend that companies familiarise themselves with ICS2 Release 2 as early as possible. This will ensure that there is no disruption to the supply chain when shipments are transported through or into the EU. If you have any further questions about ICS2, please do not hesitate to contact our experts.
