Filing of Pre-Declarations (ICS/ECS)

An entry summary declaration (ENS) containing safety and security data must be lodged via the Import Control System (ICS) for goods brought into the customs territory of the European Community directly from a third country, with the exception of Norway and Switzerland. Depending on the mode of transport this has to be taken care of up-to 24 hours in advance.

The exit summary declaration (EXS) via the Export Control System (ECS) is generally produced together with the export declaration and must also be lodged in advance. The time frame depends on the mode of transport.