HMRC is preparing to launch a free-to-use Trader Integration Micro Service (TIMS) to help hauliers comply with the new Import Control System 2 (ICS2) rules for Roll-on/Roll-off traffic between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, according to announcements from HMRC and the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade.
ICS2 has now gone live, allowing operators to submit Entry Summary (ENS) declarations ahead of the 31 December 2025 deadline, when its use will become mandatory for all GB–NI movements. HMRC is urging traders who are not yet ready to work with their supply chains to ensure they can meet the new requirements in time.
Free automatic submission tool
To simplify compliance, HMRC is developing the Trader Integration Micro Service (TIMS) — a free tool that will automatically send Arrival and Presentation of Goods notifications for Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) movements from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. These notifications are mandatory under ICS2.
According to HMRC, TIMS will:
- Require no registration and be free to use,
- Work automatically when Entry Summary Movement Reference Numbers (MRNs) are included in the Goods Movement Reference (GMR) within the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS),
- Apply only to GB–NI RoRo movements.
The release date has not yet been confirmed but is expected soon.
Who needs to take action
- If you already use the Trader Support Service (TSS) to auto-generate your GMR, no further action is required.
- If you don’t use TSS, you should start entering ENS MRNs in the GVMS when prompted, to benefit from TIMS once it is launched.
Operators who choose not to include ENS MRNs in their GMRs will need to purchase or develop their own software to submit Arrival and Presentation notifications.
HMRC said it does not expect companies to submit these notifications before TIMS becomes available. However, those planning to use other methods should prepare in advance. Until then, Arrival and Presentation requirements can continue to be fulfilled via the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) or another customs process.
What ICS2 changes
ICS2 is the EU’s new safety and security data system, replacing the earlier Import Control System (ICS1). For GB–NI traffic, it requires Entry Summary declarations to be filed before goods reach Northern Ireland, enabling customs authorities to carry out risk assessments earlier in the supply chain.
ICS2 already applies to air freight, postal and express shipments, and is now being extended to road and maritime movements.
For Roll-on/Roll-off traffic, the haulier or carrier is responsible for the Arrival and Presentation notifications, while freight forwarders or importers may handle the ENS submissions. TIMS will automate the haulier’s part of this process, provided the MRNs are correctly linked in GVMS.
How to prepare now
Hauliers operating GB–NI routes should:
- Confirm with customers or customs agents who is responsible for submitting the ENS declaration.
- Ensure GVMS processes can accept and store ENS MRNs.
- Keep records of all MRNs linked to each load.
- Follow HMRC updates on the release of TIMS.
- Test GVMS system compatibility to prevent errors at the border.
Who benefits most
TIMS is expected to particularly benefit small and medium-sized hauliers that do not use customs intermediaries, offering a cost-free and straightforward way to meet ICS2 obligations. Larger operators with integrated customs software may use it as a backup or contingency option.
Consequences of inaction
From 31 December 2025, hauliers who fail to submit Arrival and Presentation notifications risk delays at ports and potential penalties. HMRC therefore advises all GB–NI operators to ensure they are fully prepared well before the deadline.
