Everything Hauliers Need to Know About EU ENS ICS2 (January 2026 Deadline)

The clock is ticking on the biggest change to European safety and security declarations in years. From January 2026, the Import Control System 2 (ICS2) becomes mandatory for all goods entering the EU or Northern Ireland via road, rail, and sea.

If you move freight across the border, you likely already file an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS). However, the ICS2 update introduces strict new data requirements.

Failing to provide this extra data will result in your goods being stopped at the border. Here is the essential breakdown of what is changing and what you must do to prepare.

What is ICS2?

ICS2 (Import Control System 2) is the EU’s upgraded IT system for collecting data on goods before they arrive at the border.

While the original system (ICS1) was designed for basic risk assessment, ICS2 requires far more granular detail. It allows customs authorities to perform a high-level security screening in advance, flagging high-risk consignments before they even load onto a truck or vessel.

The Critical Difference: ICS1 vs. ICS2

For hauliers, the process looks similar—you still submit an ENS—but the content of that submission is changing. The "generic" data that was acceptable under ICS1 will now be rejected.

Here are the three most significant changes you need to implement immediately:

1. HS Commodity Codes (6 Digits)

Under the old rules, a 4-digit commodity code and a brief text description were often sufficient.

• The New Rule: You must provide a minimum 6-digit HS Commodity Code for every item in the shipment.

• The Impact: Vague descriptions like "Auto Parts" or "Clothing" without the specific 6-digit code will trigger a rejection.

2. Mandatory Haulier EORI (EU or XI)

This is a major tripping point for GB-based hauliers.

• The New Rule: The haulier transporting the goods must provide their own valid EU or XI (Northern Ireland) EORI number.

• The Impact: Even if you are a UK-based business with no office in the EU, you cannot file an ENS without this number. You must register for an EORI in the first EU member state you typically enter (e.g., France or Ireland).

3. Importer EORI Details

• The New Rule: You must include the EORI number of the receiver (importer) in the EU or Northern Ireland.

• The Impact: Hauliers need to ensure their customers provide this data upfront. You can no longer just list a company name and address; the validated EORI is required.

Summary of Data Requirements

To ensure your trucks clear the "Green Lane" upon arrival, your ENS submission via ICS2 must now include:

Data Field	ICS1 Requirement (Old)	ICS2 Requirement (Jan 2026)
Commodity Code	4 Digits (or description)	6 Digits (Mandatory)
Haulier ID	Often optional	Valid EU/XI EORI (Mandatory)
Importer ID	Name & Address	Valid EU/XI EORI (Mandatory)
Package Info	Basic Count	Detailed Package Type & Count

What Happens If You Don't Comply?

The ICS2 system is not just a formality; it is a "Safety & Security" gate.

Once you submit your data, the system performs a risk analysis.

1. Assessment Complete: You get a movement reference number (MRN) and can proceed.

2. Request for Information: Customs needs more details before you can move.

3. Do Not Load: The risk is too high (or data is missing), and the goods are denied entry to the EU.

If your driver arrives at the border without a pre-validated ICS2 declaration, they will be turned away or held indefinitely while the data is manually corrected.