Stricter EU border requirements will come into force on 1 January 2026, with all UK–EU shipments requiring an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) submitted in advance to avoid delays or potential rejection at the border.

New ICS2 requirements from 1 January 2026

The EU Import Control System (ICS2) becomes fully mandatory on 1 January 2026. Under the new rules, carriers transporting goods from the UK into the EU must submit an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) for each individual shipment on their vehicle.

The ENS must be filed no later than one hour prior to arrival to allow EU customs authorities time to risk assess the cargo. Goods arriving without a valid ENS may face significant delays or be refused entry.

What this means for shippers

Although carriers are responsible for submitting the ENS, they will now require additional data from shippers to ensure declarations are complete and compliant. Providing this information in full, either at booking stage or when requested, will help prevent disruptions.

To support accurate and timely ENS submissions, carriers may request the following:

• Complete shipper and consignee name and address
• EORI number of the consignee
• Complete buyer and seller name and address (if different to shipper/consignee)
• Detailed and accurate commercial description of the cargo
• The first six digits of the commodity code

Examples of acceptable descriptions by sector include:

• Print & publishing: Glossy full-colour magazines, A4, 48 pages
• Packaging: Corrugated cardboard boxes, 600x400x300mm
• Automotive: Front brake pads for passenger car, left and right set
• Cosmetics/personal care: 50ml glass bottles of lavender-scented hand cream, 12 units per carton

ICS2 also introduces “stop words”, meaning vague descriptions such as auto parts, clothing, fruit, or machinery may be automatically rejected.

If you have any questions or require support with upcoming documentation requirements, please contact your local Woodland representative.