From April 1, 2025, the European Union will introduce significant changes to its customs pre-arrival security and safety system. The Import Control System 2 (ICS2) will require rail and road transport operators to submit detailed information about goods shipped to or transiting through EU countries before their arrival via the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) document. This new regulation, aimed at strengthening EU border security and risk management, was announced by the EU Delegation to Armenia via NEWS.am.
Businesses that fail to comply with these requirements by the deadline risk disruptions in their trade activities. The EU urges economic operators to register with the National Service Desk of the respective EU member state where they obtained their EORI number before March 1, 2025.
Companies that need additional time to adjust their systems must submit a formal request for a deployment window, which is granted on a case-by-case basis. Businesses can download official informational materials in multiple languages through the Resources section of the provided link.
To facilitate the transition, the European Commission is organizing monthly webinars in English, where businesses can ask operational and technical questions about ICS2. The next session is scheduled for February 5, and further details are available via the provided link.
The ICS2 requirements do not apply solely to rail and road transport—postal and express carriers, logistics providers, and other supply chain stakeholders must also comply. In certain cases, goods destined for final delivery within the EU will also require ENS data submission to ICS2.
Security data requirements under ICS2 are already in effect for air, sea, and inland waterway transport.
For additional details, inquiries can be submitted in English or any official EU language to taxud-ics2-project-team@ec.europa.eu.
These changes will directly affect Armenian exporters engaged in trade with the EU. Companies must ensure they have the necessary digital infrastructure to meet ICS2 requirements, preventing potential delays and additional costs. Armenian businesses are advised to stay informed, participate in EU-organized webinars, and establish direct communication with EU customs authorities to ensure smooth adaptation to the new system.