Jakarta. The European Union (EU) is planning to tighten its pre-arrival security checks for its goods imported by waterways, road, and rail with the Import Control System 2 (ICS2) starting this June, in a move to protect its market.

Carriers using that mode of transport will have to submit complete data on their shipments prior to their arrival. Goods that only pass through the EU are subject to the new cargo system. The ICS2 also applies to postal and express carriers using these modes of transport, as well as logistics providers. 

A video on the ICS2 system shows that the data includes the commodity code of the goods, as well as the commercial description of the goods, among others. They will also require seller and buyer information.

A recent press release showed that affected traders would still have time to adjust and connect to the new ICS2 system. Maritime and inland waterway carriers have time to get ready until Dec. 4. Maritime and inland waterway house level filers should connect to the ICS2 system by April 1. The transition period for road and rail carriers will start in April next year and will last until September 1, 2025.

“If traders are not ready on time, and do not provide the data required under ICS2, goods will be stopped at the EU borders and will not be cleared by the customs authorities,” a recent press release reads.

The EU claimed to represent 14 percent of the global trade in goods.

“By collecting safety and security data, EU customs authorities will be able to detect risks earlier and to intervene at the most appropriate point in the supply chain to keep trade safe for the EU and its citizens,” the press release also reads.

The EU has implemented similar requirements for air transportation of goods.