Import Control System (ICS)

If you operate a sea-going ship or an aircraft that is carrying non-European Union (EU) goods into the customs territory of the Union, you must provide details in advance of your arrival. This is done by submitting an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) at your first office of entry in the EU for that vessel or aircraft.

You should lodge the ENS to the ICS. This system is used across the EU and is used to:

• lodge and process the ENS
• exchange electronic messages between customs administrations, economic operators and the European Commission.

ICS ensures that import operations starting in one Member State can be completed in another Member State without resubmitting the ENS. The ENS will undergo risk assessment and any appropriate safety and security data will be passed to the other Member State.

For further information on ICS, see the Import Control System - Trader Guide and Import Control System - FAQs.

Further Information

Revenue operates a helpline for queries on ICS.