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Countries Requiring AMS and ENS Declarations for Customs

TONLEXING Team
06/01/2025
03:07

Global trade involves navigating complex customs regulations, including the mandatory submission of AMS (Automated Manifest System) and ENS (Entry Summary Declaration) filings. These declarations ensure that countries maintain security and trade compliance standards. Knowing which countries require AMS and ENS declarations and how to handle them effectively is essential for businesses involved in international shipping.

This guide provides an in-depth overview of the AMS and ENS systems, the countries mandating their use, and tips for compliance to facilitate seamless cross-border trade.

Table of Contents

What Are AMS and ENS Declarations?

Automated Manifest System (AMS)

The AMS is an electronic filing system required by the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It mandates importers, carriers, and freight forwarders to submit shipment details, including cargo descriptions, vessel information, and consignee details, before goods arrive in the U.S. This system enhances security by enabling customs to assess risks and identify potential threats.

Entry Summary Declaration (ENS)

The ENS is a pre-arrival filing system used in the European Union (EU). It ensures customs authorities receive shipment data before goods arrive at EU borders. The ENS filing includes information such as cargo descriptions, consignor/consignee details, and transport details. The primary purpose is to improve security and facilitate smooth customs clearance.

Countries Requiring AMS Declarations

1. United States

Requirement: All maritime imports into the U.S. require AMS filings.

Key Features:

Submission must occur at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded onto a vessel bound for the U.S.
Non-compliance can lead to fines, delays, or shipment rejections.

2. Canada

Requirement: Although Canada primarily uses the ACI (Advance Commercial Information) system, AMS compliance is necessary for goods transiting through the U.S. en route to Canada.

3. Mexico

Requirement: Goods entering Mexico via the U.S. often require AMS filing as part of their transit documentation.

Countries Requiring ENS Declarations

1. European Union (EU)

Requirement: All goods entering the EU’s customs territory require an ENS filing.

Submission Deadline:

Deep-Sea Cargo: 24 hours before loading.
Short-Sea Shipping: 2 hours before arrival.

Member States:

Germany, France, Netherlands, Spain, Italy, and other EU nations.

2. United Kingdom

Requirement: Post-Brexit, the UK requires ENS filings for all imports under the UK Safety and Security regime.

3. Turkey

Requirement: Turkey enforces ENS filings for imports to align with international security protocols.

4. Norway and Switzerland

Although not EU members, these countries have adopted ENS requirements for imports to enhance border security.

Learn more:

What Is ISF Filing in Shipping?

What Are Terminal Handling Charges (THC)?

What is Freight Forwarding Business?

What Is a Packing List? What Is the Difference Between It and a B/L and CI?

AMS vs. ENS: Key Differences

Feature	AMS (USA)	ENS (EU)
Region	United States	European Union
Purpose	Security and compliance	Security and risk analysis
Deadline	24 hours before loading	Varies by shipping type
Data Required	Cargo details, consignee	Cargo and transport data
Non-Compliance Penalty	Fines, shipment delays	Fines, delays, rejections

Importance of Compliance

1. Avoiding Penalties

Failure to comply with AMS or ENS requirements can result in significant fines, shipment delays, or goods being denied entry. Proper documentation is essential to avoid these costly consequences.

2. Enhancing Supply Chain Efficiency

Accurate and timely filing ensures smoother customs clearance, reducing transit times and improving supply chain reliability.

3. Maintaining Security Standards

Both AMS and ENS declarations are critical for identifying high-risk shipments, ensuring the safety of global trade routes.

How to Simplify AMS and ENS Filing

1. Partner with Reliable Freight Forwarders

Freight forwarders like Tonlexing streamline AMS and ENS filing processes by ensuring accurate and timely submissions, minimizing the risk of non-compliance.

2. Use Advanced Software

Invest in digital tools that automate documentation, track filing deadlines, and manage compliance requirements.

3. Stay Updated on Regulations

Regulatory requirements for AMS and ENS filings can change. Regularly check updates from relevant customs authorities to stay compliant.

4. Train Your Team

Ensure that your logistics team understands the documentation and submission process to prevent errors.

AMS and ENS declarations are integral to international shipping, ensuring security and compliance with global trade standards. Understanding the requirements of countries mandating these filings—such as the U.S., EU member states, and the UK—is crucial for smooth logistics operations.

By partnering with experienced freight forwarders like Tonlexing, businesses can navigate these complexities with ease, ensuring timely and accurate submissions. Contact us today to learn how we can support your AMS and ENS compliance for seamless international trade.