ICS2: New Guidance on ENS Data Quality
The European Commission has published new guidance to help economic operators improve the quality of Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) data submitted through the Import Control System 2 (ICS2).
The guidance highlights the importance of providing complete, accurate and detailed shipment information to support effective customs risk analysis and ensure compliance with EU safety and security requirements.
The Commission also released an updated list of “stop words”—generic goods descriptions such as parts, various or general merchandise—which no longer meet the required data quality standards. Businesses are encouraged to use precise product descriptions to reduce the risk of rejected declarations, customs delays and additional inspections.
With the end of the NCTS Phase 6 derogation period on 1 June 2026, accurate ENS data has become even more critical. Companies should review their declaration processes and ensure that their customs systems are fully aligned with the latest ICS2 requirements before submitting shipments to the EU.
Import Control System 2 – Taxation and Customs Union – European Commission
TransitNet offers a full ICS 2 service including allowing users to the option to reuse their transit data to create an ICS 2 declaration.
