European roadmap to recovery

ICS2 and ELO: Preparing for the Next Phase of EU Border Compliance

Mar 28, 2025 | , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

As of 1st April, the European Union’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) entered its final implementation phase; a critical milestone for businesses moving goods into the EU. 

Designed to enhance the safety and security of EU-bound shipments, ICS2 is now live across all transport modes, including road and rail, in addition to air, maritime, and inland waterways.

Import Control System 2

ICS2 introduces a standardised, data-driven pre-arrival notification for goods entering the EU. The system mandates the submission of accurate and complete Entry Summary Declarations (ENS) before arrival at the EU’s external border. These declarations allow customs authorities to perform detailed risk assessments and target high-risk consignments before they enter the supply chain.

This not only improves customs enforcement but supports a more secure and streamlined trade environment.

This latest phase introduces two key updates:

  1. 1. Mandatory House Bill Filings for Surface Containerised Movements
    This update predominantly affects sea freight and applies to:

    • Goods moving to the EU
    • In-transit shipments through the EU
    • Freight Remaining on Board (FROB)
  1. 2. Live ICS2 Filing for Road and Rail Movements
    Both accompanied and unaccompanied trailers now fall under ICS2’s scope. Businesses must submit ENS data 1 to 2 hours before EU arrival, depending on the transport type. Timing is critical — incomplete or late submissions could lead to delays, detentions, or even denied entry.

The Enveloppe Logistique Obligatoire

As introduced during our most recent webinar, ELO is not to be confused with the 70s rock band, it represents a major evolution in French customs procedures.

ELO is an extension of France’s import/export pairing process. Under the new system, every crossing from GB into France will require a declaration barcode, which also supports onward movement into the remaining 27 EU countries. The goal is to digitise and streamline freight verification, with a single ELO envelope covering the full logistics trail.

Metro’s Briefing Webinar

On Friday, 28th March, Metro hosted its second industry webinar, focusing on the latest regulatory developments. The webinar audience were briefed by our experts on the latest regulatory developments, including ICS2 declarations, the introduction of ELO, updates and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). 

They were also updated on changes to the UK Customs Declaration Service (CDS) for exports, evolving trade agreements such as the CPTPP, and implications of the Windsor Framework for Northern Ireland.

The session aimed to ensure attendees are not just compliant but well-positioned to optimise their supply chain strategies in this evolving regulatory landscape.

Stay connected with Metro for expert-led insights, upcoming webinars, and on-the-ground support to navigate new regulatory frameworks confidently. EMAIL Andy Fitchett to register your interest.

Bridge on ship

Sea Freight Market Review

Mar 18, 2025 | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The global ocean freight market is undergoing a period of transition in 2025, influenced by regulatory changes, shifting trade patterns, and evolving carrier alliances. While demand remains strong in key regions, rate volatility persists due to supply chain disruptions and excess capacity.

The ocean freight sector is experiencing considerable adjustments as carriers adapt to regulatory and economic shifts. The EU ETS expansion now covers 70% of maritime emissions, leading to higher surcharges and operational costs for carriers.

Supply/Demand
Capacity growth is projected to slow to 5% in 2025 after record vessel deliveries in 2024. However, supply chain disruptions persist due to global port congestion and ongoing Red Sea diversions are soaking up excess capacity.

The restructuring of major shipping alliances is further shaping the industry landscape, with the dissolution of 2M, the formation of the Premier Alliance by THE Alliance, and the launch of Gemini Cooperation in February 2025.

Proforma scheduled liner capacity on the Asia-North Europe trade is set to be reduced by around 11% once the transition to the new shipping alliance set-up is complete. The combined weekly capacity drop of some 28,000 TEU equates to a total reduction of 221,000 TEU across all services. However, the number of individual weekly sailings between Asia and North Europe is expected to increase from 26 (under the previous alliances and standalone services) to 28, potentially improving frequency and flexibility for shippers.

Global port congestion remains a pressing issue, particularly in China and vessel utilisation remains high, with only 0.2% of the global liner fleet currently idle. The industry is also witnessing an increase in blank sailings, with 47 announced through mid-April, affecting Transpacific and Asia-Europe trade routes. The Transpacific market, in particular, is experiencing notable disruptions, with 43% of blank sailings concentrated in this corridor.

Expectations that Red Sea diversions would ease, returning an estimated 2 million TEU to global circulation, were dampened over the weekend following missile exchanges between the US and Yemen’s Houthi rebels. MSC CEO Soren Toft stated, “Suez simply isn’t safe to transit at the moment, and there’s no immediate prospect of a return.” This continued instability may prolong disruptions and return pressure on rates.

Market
Meanwhile, the Shanghai Containerised Freight Index (SCFI) has dropped 17% since January and despite strong cargo demand in select regions, the market remains vulnerable to downward pricing pressures.

Demand remains resilient but uneven, with North America and India seeing stronger performance, whereas Europe’s slower economic growth is weighing on export activity. Chinese exports have exceeded expectations, driven in part by early shipments ahead of potential tariff adjustments.

The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) has reached its lowest level since January 2024 and while rates are below their pandemic-era peaks they are still 79% higher than pre-pandemic averages from 2019.

At Metro, our fixed-rate agreements on popular shipping routes provide a practical safeguard against rate volatility, offering predictable costs for effective budgeting. Whether you’re managing high-volume trade lanes or seeking greater stability for your supply chain, our tailored solutions can help you thrive in 2025.

To discover how Metro can strengthen your business and provide peace of mind, EMAIL our Managing Director, Andy Smith, today.

Conference question 1440x960 1

Key Takeaways from TPM25

Mar 17, 2025 | , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The 25th anniversary of the Trans-Pacific Maritime (TPM) Conference in Long Beach, California, reaffirmed its position as the premier global forum for senior supply chain executives carriers, and technology providers shaping the future of global trade.

This year’s event unfolded against a backdrop of intensifying geopolitical tensions, with supply chain resilience and service reliability emerging as dominant themes.

As hostilities between U.S. forces and Houthi rebels in Yemen resumed over the weekend, it is evident that safe passage through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal will remain compromised for the foreseeable future.

With security risks heightened, carriers are expected to continue rerouting vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, adding transit times, costs, and complexity to global trade.

Engaging with Industry Leaders
Metro’s Managing Director, Andrew Smith, and Head of Ocean Pricing, Chris Jones, played an active role in TPM25, engaging in key discussions on market volatility, geopolitical risks, and the evolving carrier landscape.

During in-depth conversations with carriers and customers, Metro explored strategies to mitigate ongoing disruptions in the Red Sea, as well as how emerging shipping alliances are reshaping service offerings. Understanding carrier market pressures and operational adjustments remains a priority for Metro, ensuring that we continue to deliver the most resilient and efficient logistics solutions for our clients.

Beyond TPM
Following the conference’s close, Andrew and Chris extended their commitment to direct client engagement with visits to Minneapolis and Chicago. Their series of meetings provided an invaluable opportunity to gain firsthand insights into the challenges facing shippers, including changing regulations, shifting trade dynamics, and the ongoing impact of global events.

By working closely with customers on tailored supply chain strategies, Metro continues to bridge the gap between industry-wide challenges and customer-specific solutions, reinforcing our role as a trusted partner in an unpredictable market.

A recurring theme throughout TPM25 was the industry’s relentless pursuit of stability amidst growing uncertainty. Discussions highlighted the urgent need for agile, data-driven solutions, with many industry leaders acknowledging that technology, real-time intelligence, and predictive analytics will be key differentiators in navigating the complexities of modern supply chains.

Metro remains at the forefront of this transformation, actively integrating AI-driven analytics, digital platform enhancements, and predictive modelling to help customers make informed, real-time decisions.

This commitment is clearly demonstrated this week, with Metro integrating CO2 emissions data directly into freight invoices, together with the launch of new tools that give customers greater financial control, reduced administrative burdens and enhanced efficiency.

As we reflect on the insights gained at TPM25 and our follow-up discussions with customers, Metro reaffirms its commitment to staying ahead of global trade challenges, ensuring that our partners remain competitive, informed, and prepared in a rapidly evolving landscape.

To discover how Metro can support your Transpacific or Transatlantic trade needs, or to discuss any of the issues highlighted here, please reach out to Andrew Smith via EMAIL

Parliament blur

UK trade update

Mar 5, 2025 | , , , ,

The UK continues to develop its global trade strategy, advancing negotiations with key partners while navigating post-Brexit relations with the EU.

With multiple trade discussions in progress and regulatory changes affecting movement between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, businesses should prepare for evolving trade conditions in the coming months.

Northern Ireland trade lane: transition deadline approaches

From 31st March 2025, updated processes for parcel movements between Great Britain and Northern Ireland will take effect, marking a significant transition for businesses.

  • Private individuals in Northern Ireland will continue to receive parcels from Great Britain without customs declarations, tariffs, or the need to present goods to customs, provided they are for personal use.
  • Business-to-business (B2B) parcel movements will follow freight procedures, with traders requiring authorisation under the UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS). Either the sender or recipient must be authorised to declare goods as ‘not at risk’, ensuring they qualify for duty-free movement under the Simplified Process for Internal Market Movements (SPIMM).
  • B2B goods that do not qualify for SPIMM will require a full customs declaration, reinforcing the importance of ensuring compliance with eligibility criteria.

With NIRMS, UKIMS, SPIMM, and IMMI frameworks creating a complex regulatory landscape, businesses are encouraged to seek guidance to ensure compliance. Metro offers support in navigating these schemes, including post-Brexit audit reviews to assess eligibility for retrospective duty reclaims.

UK trade negotiations: expanding global agreements

The UK is actively pursuing new and expanded trade agreements to strengthen its global economic position.

  • Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP): The UK formally joined in December 2024, becoming the first European country to enter this major trade bloc, enhancing access to 11 key markets.
  • India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): Negotiations with India and the GCC are currently the highest priority, with discussions ongoing to finalise agreements.
  • South Korea, Switzerland, and Israel: The UK is working to deepen market access and streamline trade flows with these nations through revised agreements.

EU trade discussions: cautious expectations for change

Despite renewed diplomatic engagement between the UK and the EU, businesses should not expect imminent changes to existing trade arrangements.

Since the UK’s government change in July 2024, there has been a positive shift in UK-EU relations, yet uncertainty remains regarding what the UK seeks from a proposed trade ‘reset’. European officials have emphasised the need for clarity, particularly on youth mobility, but discussions remain in the early stages, with Brexit-related complexities still shaping the dialogue.

With UK-EU delegations set to meet in May, expectations are that the summit will establish a foundation for future talks rather than delivering immediate policy changes.

  • Supply chain operators should not anticipate short-term relief from Brexit-related challenges.
  • No significant changes to frontier processes appear likely, with both sides committed to fully implementing the current trade and cooperation agreement before considering modifications.
  • SMEs remain disproportionately affected by post-Brexit trade changes, with industry groups urging policymakers to prioritise reducing red tape.

As the UK’s trade strategy evolves, we will share important developments, particularly regarding EU discussions and the phased implementation of new trade agreements.

Navigating the complexities of international trade requires real-time insights and expert guidance. At Metro, we continuously monitor market influences and evolving regulations, to help you de-risk your supply chain and maximise opportunities.

With over 40 years of expertise in multimodal transport and customs brokerage, we lead the way with CuDoS, our automated customs declaration platform, ensuring swift compliance with UK and EU trade regimes.

Make informed decisions with Metro’s strategic support. For trade insights and risk management advice, EMAIL Laurence Burford, Chief Financial Officer. For customs and regulatory solutions, EMAIL Andrew Smith, Managing Director.

Category: International Trade

Economics | Exports | International Trade | Supply Chain

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