EU ICS2 Cargo Description Requirements – JUL 2026

The European Commission has updated the cargo description requirements under the EU Import Control System 2 (ICS2).

Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is an advance cargo information system designed to improve security in the international transportation of goods and involved supply chain. All Economic Operators (EOs) that bring goods to or transiting through the EU, have to declare safety and security data to ICS2, through the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS).  Based on the ENS, all goods are subject to safety and security risk analysis and better targeted controls.

From 3 August 2026, generic cargo descriptions (commonly referred to as “stop words”) may result in the automatic rejection of security filings for air cargo destined to or transiting through the European Union.

This applies to:

• Air cargo destined for the European Union, or
• Air cargo transiting through the EU.

It does not apply to ocean freight.

To avoid delays, it is important that all shipping documents include clear and specific commodity descriptions. Examples include “men’s cotton shirts”, “automotive brake pads” or “LED light fittings”, rather than generic descriptions such as “parts”, “goods”, “samples” or “general cargo”.

Where insufficient cargo descriptions are provided, Tradewise may need to request additional information before shipments can be lodged.

The list of “Stop Words” can be downloaded using this link.

If you have any questions regarding these requirements, please contact our team.