French Customs have issued an important reminder for operators moving goods into the EU by road and rail: the ICS2 transition period ends on 31 December 2025 for these transport modes, including unaccompanied trailers.

From 1 January 2026, Entry Summary Declarations (ENS) for road and rail transport must be lodged in ICS2. The former French national system ICS(1) will no longer be accepted for these flows.

What happens if ENS is not lodged in ICS2?

According to French Customs, if an ENS is not submitted in ICS2 from 1 January 2026, customs authorities are entitled to:

• Refuse entry of goods into the EU customs territory

• Initiate legal action for failure to comply with safety and security requirements

Flows particularly affected

French Customs highlight that the following flows are especially concerned:

• Mediterranean entry points: road flows in combined transport and unaccompanied trailers using ferry services

• Brexit Smart Border with the United Kingdom: road flows in combined transport and unaccompanied trailers via ferry crossings or rail shuttles through the Channel Tunnel

Requirements for operators

To be able to lodge ENS in ICS2 from 1 January 2026, operators must:

• Hold a valid EORI number, including non-EU established operators

• Choose their ICS2 access method for ENS submission

How x7trade supports ICS2 for Road

As the deadline approaches, preparation is critical. x7trade supports ICS2-compliant ENS filing for road transport, helping operators:

• Automate ENS submissions

• Ensure accurate, validated safety and security data

• Reduce the risk of refusals, delays and penalties

With the transition period coming to an end, French Customs make it clear: ICS2 is mandatory from 2026. x7trade helps ensure your road operations are compliant, efficient and ready well ahead of the deadline!