Customs digitalisation: what changes for carriers?
Adopted 2026-06-16 · ≈ 2 min read · 
edited by Dirk Baaijen
The EU is digitalising customs processes through the Union Customs Code, ICS2 for advance security data and eFTI for electronic freight information. Carriers face digital declarations, data exchange and phased obligations.
Short answer: The EU is gradually replacing paper-based and fragmented customs processes with digital data exchange. The Union Customs Code (Regulation (EU) No 952/2013) is built on electronic customs processes, ICS2 collects security data before entry, and eFTI (Regulation (EU) 2020/1056) governs the electronic exchange of freight transport information between businesses and authorities.
The Union Customs Code as the digital basis
The Union Customs Code (UCC, Regulation (EU) No 952/2013) provides the legal framework for customs processes in the EU. The Code treats electronic data processing as the rule for the exchange and storage of customs data. On that basis, the European Commission works on the development and roll-out of electronic customs systems. For carriers this means customs formalities are increasingly handled through standardised electronic data.
Advance security data through ICS2
A key element of the digitalisation is the Import Control System 2 (ICS2). Through the entry summary declaration (ENS), the parties involved provide cargo data in advance so customs can assess risk before arrival. ICS2 is being rolled out by the European Commission in phases, by release and by mode of transport (air, maritime, rail and road). Which datasets are required and which deadlines apply depend on the mode of transport and the implementation phase; consult the Commission's official ICS2 page for this.
eFTI: electronic freight information
Alongside the customs dimension, the eFTI Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2020/1056) governs the electronic exchange of freight transport information between businesses and competent authorities. The principle is that authorities must accept electronically supplied transport information when it is provided through a certified eFTI platform. For carriers this can gradually standardise how information is supplied to enforcement bodies. The exact dates and implementing provisions are set out in the Regulation and its accompanying acts.
What it means for carriers
- Prepare for digital data exchange. Expect electronic declarations and
standardised datasets instead of separate documents.
- Follow the phasing. ICS2 and eFTI obligations enter into force in phases;
check the deadlines that apply to your mode of transport and situation in the official sources.
Read more: Transport & Logistics. Take the scan.
Sources
- https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2013/952/oj
Regulation (EU) No 952/2013 (Union Customs Code, UCC): legal framework and shift to electronic customs processes. - https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2020/1056/oj
Regulation (EU) 2020/1056 (eFTI): legal framework for electronic exchange of freight transport information. - https://taxation-customs.ec.europa.eu/customs-4/customs-security/import-control-system-2-ics2_en
European Commission, Taxation & Customs Union — Import Control System 2 (ICS2): purpose and phased introduction.
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