Every international shipment must pass several checks before reaching its destination. One critical checkpoint is the ENS, short for Entry Summary Declaration.
You may have come across this term on freight invoices or during customs discussions and wondered, "What exactly is an ENS charge, and why am I paying for it?"
This blog will walk you through what an ENS charge covers, why it exists, who needs an ENS code, and how to register for one. We will also look at the key data points required for this process.
ENS in shipping stands for Entry Summary Declaration. It is a mandatory security filing required by customs authorities in certain regions, most notably the European Union (EU).
Through the implementation of EU Regulation 1875/2006, the European Union made it mandatory for all carriers to file an ENS declaration for cargo inbound into EU ports.
Shipping lines or freight forwarders must submit this declaration before goods enter the customs territory. The ENS filing provides critical information about the cargo, its origin, and its movement.
An ENS charge is the fee that shipping carriers or freight forwarders apply to cover the cost of preparing and submitting this declaration on behalf of the shipper. It ensures compliance with customs regulations and helps avoid potential fines, delays, or shipment holds.
ENS charges and filing are specific to shipments entering the European Union (EU) and do not apply to shipments solely within or originating from India unless the goods are destined for the EU. For shipments that are only within India or not headed for the EU, different customs procedures and charges are applicable.
When your cargo is destined for a country that requires an ENS filing, the ENS charge is the cost you incur to have that documentation processed correctly and on time.
Suppose you are exporting goods from India to Germany by sea. The container is scheduled to load at the Port of Mundra and arrive at the Port of Hamburg.
Before loading, your freight forwarder must file the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) with German customs. For this service, the logistics provider adds an ENS charge to your shipping invoice.
ENS Charge: €25 to €50 (₹2,513- ₹5,027) per shipment, depending on the freight forwarder and the port of entry.
This charge typically covers:
Note: The ENS charge applies per shipment, not per container. The exact fee can vary based on the type of goods, number of amendments, and destination country.
Also Read: Guide to Various Types of Freight and Shipping Charges
The Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) in shipping is essential for customs security and risk management. Authorities require this filing for several key reasons:
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If you are involved in international shipping to the European Union (EU), you need an ENS code. The ENS, or Entry Summary Declaration, is a mandatory requirement for anyone responsible for bringing goods into the EU’s customs territory.
This includes:
In short, anyone involved in the transportation of goods into the EU, whether you are shipping, carrying, or facilitating the movement, needs to understand and comply with ENS requirements.
Pazago simplifies this process by offering tools that support customs compliance and real-time shipment visibility, helping businesses stay aligned with EU regulations without slowing down their operations.
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The ENS must provide complete and accurate shipment details. Here’s what is typically included in an ENS in shipping:
By providing this information in the ENS, shippers ensure compliance with customs regulations and avoid potential delays, fines, or shipment holds.
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Before your goods can enter European ports, you must file an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS). This requires an ENS code, which plays a key role in customs clearance and compliance with EU regulations. The registration process is straightforward, but attention to detail is critical to avoid delays or fines.
Here is how to register:
If you are a non-EU trader, appoint an authorized representative such as a freight forwarder, customs agent, or logistics company to handle the ENS filing on your behalf. EU-based companies can manage this directly or through a partner.
An Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number is mandatory. This unique ID connects your business to EU customs systems. You can apply for an EORI number through your country’s customs portal.
Gather all required details:
Incomplete or inaccurate information can result in the rejection of your declaration.
Filing deadlines vary by mode of transport:
Late filings can lead to penalties or shipping delays.
File the ENS through the national customs IT system of the EU country where your goods will first arrive. Your logistics partner can manage this electronically. Once accepted, the system will generate an ENS code.
ENS requirements apply across the EU, but individual member states may have slight differences in their filing procedures. Always verify the process with the customs authority of your destination country.
If any shipping details change after the declaration is filed, such as vessel schedule or cargo details, submit an amendment promptly. Failure to do so may result in non-compliance.
Customs authorities will review your ENS and assess potential risks. Low-risk shipments clear faster. Maintaining a solid compliance record and working with reputable logistics partners helps improve your risk profile.
Once issued, record your ENS code and share it with all involved parties, including the shipping line, port authorities, and customs brokers. Without this code, your shipment will not be cleared for entry.
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You must file an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) before goods enter the customs territory of the European Union (EU). The filing deadline depends on the mode of transport:
Timely filing ensures that customs authorities can perform necessary security risk assessments and that your cargo moves smoothly through EU borders. Late or incorrect submissions may result in delays, penalties, or rejection of goods.
An Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) is required for shipments entering the European Union (EU). It provides customs with advanced cargo details to assess risks. Filing the ENS involves administrative work, which leads to ENS charges.
Here’s how Pazago simplifies this process:
By managing ENS filing, charges, and compliance, Pazago helps businesses avoid delays and run smoother international shipping operations.
Managing shipping regulations, such as the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS), is crucial for ensuring smooth customs clearance and uninterrupted supply chains. When businesses handle these filings correctly, they avoid costly delays and strengthen their competitive edge in global markets.
As trade regulations evolve, companies are relying on technology to simplify compliance and streamline logistics. Tools like Pazago help by centralizing documentation, improving visibility, and automating key processes. This makes it easier to manage ENS filings and keep shipments moving.
Curious how Pazago can support your shipping operations? Book a demo with us today. We are here to help.
1. What is ENS in shipping?
A. ENS (Entry Summary Declaration) is an electronic document required by EU customs for all goods entering the European Union (EU). It includes shipment details that help customs authorities assess safety and security risks before the cargo arrives.
2. Why do I need to file an ENS?
A. An ENS filing is mandatory for compliance with EU customs regulations. It enables risk assessment and protects EU borders. Failure to file may lead to shipment delays, fines, or refusal of entry.
3. Why is there an ENS charge on my invoice?
A. The ENS charge covers the cost of preparing and submitting the declaration to customs. It includes data collection, system access, administrative processing, and ensuring compliance with submission deadlines.
4. Who is responsible for submitting the ENS?
A. The carrier usually files the ENS, but freight forwarders or customs brokers may handle it on the shipper’s behalf. Responsibility often depends on Incoterms and shipping arrangements.
5. When must the ENS be submitted?
A. For sea freight, the ENS must be filed at least 24 hours before cargo loading at the port of departure. Deadlines vary for air, road, or rail shipments based on transit times and customs rules.