Don’t Get Stopped at the Border
If you’re a haulier transporting goods to or from GB to Europe, France or Ireland, the rules are changing, and early 2026 is the deadline you cannot ignore. The EU Import Control System 2 (ICS2) and ELO updates will affect every shipment you carry, and failing to comply could mean delays, fines, and frustrated customers.
This post explains everything you need to know – from what ICS2 and ELO are, to how to prepare, and what steps you can take now to stay ahead.
What is ICS2?
ICS2 stands for Import Control System 2, an EU-wide system designed to improve security and safety for goods entering the EU from outside Europe. From early 2026, every shipment to or from GB to Europe, France or Ireland will require an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) before arrival. This is a pre-arrival notification that gives EU customs authorities key information about your goods, the transporter, and the journey.
Why It Matters
Submitting ENS declarations isn’t optional. Failure to do so can result in goods being refused entry at the border, detention of shipments by customs authorities and even fines and penalties. In practice, this means that even a single shipment missing an ENS could throw your schedule into chaos. Delays don’t just cost money – they damage your reputation and relationships with customers.
ENS Submission Requirements
Here’s what hauliers need to know about ENS:
Every shipment needs an ENS declaration — whether it’s accompanied or unaccompanied freight.
Lodgement must happen before arrival at the EU border, usually 2 or more hours in advance.
Make sure your ENS details are accurate and complete — errors will trigger delays and may incur penalties.
ELO System – Streamlining Crossings to France
Alongside ICS2, French Customs are rolling out ELO (Enveloppe Logistique Obligatoire) for hauliers transporting goods to and from France. ELO is essentially a digital envelope that consolidates all ENS declarations for a shipment and provides a single barcode for scanning at the port. Although ELO is not mandatory until early 2026, it’s strongly advised to adopt the system immediately.
Avoid Refusals at the Port
Without a valid ELO barcode, trucks can be refused boarding or sent for manual inspection. This can result in significant delays, lost revenue, and driver frustration.
Reduce Manual Errors
ELO automates the pairing process for ENS declarations, reducing the risk of mistakes that can lead to fines or delays.
Save Time at Check-In
Currently, drivers are required to answer questions from ferry companies at check-in. With ELO, this step is largely eliminated, allowing drivers to move through ports faster.
Who Needs ELO?
ELO is required for accompanied freight (driver with vehicle and load), unaccompanied freight (trailer or container transported without a driver) and even empty vehicles moving between GB to Europe.
If your route includes France, ELO is your responsibility. Waiting until it becomes mandatory could create costly delays.
How to Prepare for ICS2 and ELO
Preparation is the key to avoiding disruption.
View our Step by Step instructions on how to apply
Apply for a French EORI