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Customs procedure in UK related shipments

UK related shipments

Finnlines implements the European Union’s Import Control System (ICS2), designed specifically for the maritime industry. This update is planned to enhance pre-arrival safety and security checks for cargo shipments that either depart from the UK or that are carried by vessels making a stop at a UK port.

To comply with ICS2, you need to provide the following additional details to help ensure smooth cargo processing. These requirements include:

  • 6-digit HS Code for the commodity
    Accurate HS codes help customs identify and classify goods effectively.
  • Complete and accurate cargo descriptions
    Clear and compliant descriptions are essential for customs processing. You can refer to EU guidelines for examples.
  • Detailed and concise Document Party addresses
    For each party involved in the shipment (Shipper, Consignee, Notify Party) the following information needs to be provided:
    • Business Name
    • Street Name Line 1 (mandatory unless PO Box is provided)
    • Street Name Line 2 (optional)
    • House Number (mandatory unless PO Box is provided)
    • PO Box (mandatory unless House Number is provided)
    • City (mandatory)
    • Postal Code/ZIP (mandatory)
    • Country (mandatory)
  • EORI number for Consignee established in the EU
    This is a mandatory EU customs identification number for consignees.
  • EORI number for the declarant
    Applicable if you’re using House Bills of Lading (HBL).
  • Buyer and Seller data
    Accurate information for both buyer and seller is required to facilitate processing.

House Bill of Lading (HBL)

The ICS2 process will allow Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) submissions by carriers, freight forwarders, or consignees. Soon after, it will also permit the use of House Bills of Lading (HBL). While this new process introduces additional steps, it is designed to improve the long-term efficiency and transparency of customs procedures.

Please let us know if you will use this House Bill of Lading by informing Ms. Riikka Stolt, [email protected].

More information

EU guidelines for cargo descriptions.

More information about EORI numbers: Economic Operators Registration and Identification number.

Finnlines services

For Finnlines services, this means cargo from Finland to Zeebrugge (Belgium) and Spain, as well as from the UK to continental Europe.

ICS2 Regulation does not apply to:

  • Helsinki / Kotka / Travemünde – Antwerp
  • Bilbao / Vigo –  Zeebrugge / Antwerp
  • Bilbao / Vigo –  Helsinki / Kotka
  • Zeebrugge / Antwerp – Helsinki / Kotka
  • Zeebrugge – Rosslare – Zeebrugge
  • Helsinki – Rosslare (Trailers cargo only)
  • Rosslare – Helsinki / Kotka

ICS2 Regulation does apply to:

  • Helsinki / Kotka / Travemünde – Zeebrugge
  • Helsinki / Kotka – Rosslare
  • Helsinki / Kotka / Travemünde – Bilbao / Vigo
  • Sheerness – Zeebrugge
  • Sheerness – Bilbao / Vigo

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