Maersk is tightening customs compliance requirements for cargo destined for the European Union, placing greater emphasis on the timely submission and validation of shipment data before containers are loaded.
The measures are linked to the EU’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) requirements, under which carriers must submit an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) containing advance cargo information. A valid Movement Reference Number (MRN) is required before eligible cargo can be loaded under the “No MRN, No Load” compliance process.
For shippers and freight forwarders, the stricter process means customs-related information must be complete and accurate ahead of the applicable loading cut-off. Missing or incorrect information can result in customs filing problems and potentially prevent cargo from being loaded on the planned vessel.
The requirements increase the importance of providing accurate shipper and consignee details, cargo descriptions and other mandatory customs data well before departure.
Maersk’s tighter compliance approach reflects the broader implementation of EU customs security requirements, which are intended to improve advance risk assessment and strengthen controls over goods entering the bloc.
Shippers moving cargo to Europe are therefore being encouraged to review their documentation processes and ensure that required customs information is submitted within the prescribed timelines to avoid delays or cargo rollovers.