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Hauliers must get to grips with ICS2, despite delays

[ September 23, 2025   //   ]

Customs broker Derry Bros is urging hauliers not to become complacent about Import Control System 2 (ICS2) Phase 3, despite many EU members delaying its introduction.

Head of operations and sales Colin Robb, warns that the latest postponements have resulted in a fragmented implementation for road freight, which has caused confusion and left many operators unprepared for the changes.

He said: “There is certainly some nervousness about how best to tackle the new requirements, and latest delays have only added to the uncertainty,” he explains. “Compliance is still mandatory for some EU countries, while others are waiting for the end of 2025. However, a wait and see approach is not an option, so hauliers need to adapt their IT systems, update shipping processes, and train teams to handle the changes.

“It will be crucial for hauliers to get to grips with the ICS2 requirements, because failure to comply is expected to lead to stricter fines and penalties, as well as refused entry of goods and delays at EU borders. We are offering guidance and support to help operators adapt customs processes or software integrations, so they can avoid any supply chain disruption.”

ICS2 is an EU customs initiative to enhance border security for goods entering the EU, Switzerland, and Norway that has undergone a phased rollout since 2021. It aims for earlier and more comprehensive data submission, enhanced risk assessment, and shared responsibility with customers and partners. It is designed to improve visibility, speed up risk assessment and clearance, and support early and coordinated intervention for unsafe goods.

Derry Bros says its new self-service customs solution, SelfClear, can also generate Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) for ICS2 and the company has introduced an AI assistant that simplifies error messaging and then provides options to rectify issues.

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