EU ICS2 Alert - New Stop Word List Published: Avoid Rejections and Ensure Data Quality
The European Commission has released a key update in the ongoing implementation of the Import Control System 2 (ICS2). An updated list of “Stop Words”—terms considered to reflect insufficient data quality—has now been published. Use of these terms in Entry Summary Declarations (ENS) may result in automatic filing rejections under ICS2.
What’s new?
The updated (non-exhaustive) list now includes an additional column clearly indicating which stop words are:
- Active and will trigger rejections
- Temporarily disabled, with no current impact on filings
Economic Operators must monitor their error messages and re-submit filings with accurate data. Access the updated list of stop words via the CIRCABC platform.
Why does it matter?
This update directly reinforces the recommendations set out in the Joint Guidance Note developed by FIATA and the Global Shippers Forum (GSF) on Enhancing Data Quality and Information Exchange for the EU ICS2 Regime, which underscores the critical role that accurate, complete, and descriptive data plays in ensuring smooth cargo clearance and avoiding delays or rejections under ICS2.
Poor data quality not only increases the risk of delays and rejections under ICS2 but may also have wider implications for supply chain reliability and regulatory compliance.
Members are encouraged to revisit this guidance to support their operational readiness and ensure that the data provided by shippers and other parties is compliant with European Union expectations.
Access the FIATA-GSF Data Quality Guidance Note here!
What to do next?
- Access the updated list of stop words to ensure ongoing compliance with ICS2 requirements.
- Review the FIATA-GSF guidance note on data quality to align internal and client-facing processes.
- Clearly communicate on data requirements with your clients to raise awareness and improve data input quality.
For any questions or feedback regarding ICS2 implementation, please do not hesitate to contact [email protected].