ISPS vs ENS Codes — Decode Them in 10 Minutes

1 · Why These Codes Exist

• ISPS (International Ship & Port Facility Security Code)
  • Mandatory security declaration for vessels and port facilities
  • Issued by Registered Country (replaces flag state)
  • Validates ship compliance with global security levels
  • Penalties for missing ISPS: vessel holds, port denial
• ENS (Entry Summary Declaration)
  • Mandatory customs pre-arrival cargo declaration for European ports
  • Filed via EU Customs ICS2 system at least 24 hours before loading
  • Used for risk assessment and cargo clearance
  • Penalties for missing ENS: fines up to €50,000 and container off-loading
• EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification)
  • Mandatory for customs clearance in European Territory
  • Identifies importers/exporters in EU customs system
  • Required to lodge ENS declarations and complete clearance

2 · Timeline: When Each Code Is Filed

• ENS must be lodged in the EU’s ICS2 platform at least 24 hours before the vessel loads at origin (or 2 hours for short-sea shipping).
• ISPS Statement is updated by the vessel’s captain at each port call and submitted to the next port authority 24 to 96 hours before arrival.

3 · 10-Point Compliance Checklist

• Confirm EU port of first entry
• Gather HS code, shipper & consignee EORI numbers, package counts, and weights
• Lodge ENS via carrier portal or service provider
• Receive Movement Reference Number (MRN) confirmation
• Add MRN to export Bill of Lading
• Obtain vessel’s latest ISPS Statement from ship’s Master or agent
• Verify International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) expiry date
• Share ISPS copy with import broker if requested
• Keep ENS and ISPS codes filed with booking documentation for audits
• Re-lodge ENS if vessel routing or schedule changes prior to loading

4 · How OS Planning Speeds It Up (Auto-Fill)

• ENS Auto-Fill: Enter EU port and HS code once; shipper and consignee data auto-populate from your saved addresses.
• ISPS Lookup: Select your vessel; OS pulls latest ISPS statement and ISSC expiry from carrier feeds automatically.

5 · Common Errors to Avoid

6 · FAQ

• Do I need ENS for the UK post-Brexit? No. The UK uses the Submit & Secure (S&S GB) system separately from the EU ENS.
• Is ISPS required for domestic coastal shipping in India? Domestic vessels carry ISSC certificates, but Indian ports rarely require ISPS copies from exporters.
• Does OS Planning file ENS for me? Currently, OS auto-fills relevant data; your carrier submits the official declaration. One-click digital filing is planned for 2025.