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Change Notice: Belgium Import Customs Procedures

EUA Advisory

Dear Valued ONE Customer,

We are writing to inform you of an important change to customs procedures for Belgium import cargo,  which will be implemented via a phased (step-by-step) approach leading up to the final go-live. This change will have direct consequences for your operational processes and the subsequent customs documentation required by the Customs Authorities. 

What is changing

Belgian Customs is transitioning towards the Temporary Storage Declaration (TSD) and the Presentation Notification / Temporary Storage (PNTS).

  • TSD and PN Mandatory: The TSD and the PN will be compulsory for all incoming cargo.
  • CUSCAR Replacement: The TSD will replace the traditional CUSCAR/cargo list as the primary customs documentation for Temporary Storage.

How does the new process work

  1. TSD Submission: Ocean Network Express (ONE) submits the TSD (Temporary Storage Declaration) electronically to the Customs Authority. This submission is facilitated through the Inbound Release Platform (IRP) provided by NxtPort (the digital data platform for the Port of Antwerp-Bruges). Upon receiving the declaration, Customs assigns a TSD CRN (Customs Reference Number), which is then returned.
  2. PN Presentation: After unloading, a PN (Presentation Notification) is sent and the TSD is activated. This leads to the clearance of the TSD CRN by the assignment of a new TSD MRN (Movement Reference Number).
  3. Access to Cargo Details: ONE will provide customs details via traditional arrival notices, including the "Reference Key" (consisting of the B/L number, container number, and EORI number). If the TSD CRN is already available at the time of issuance, it will also be included in the notice.
  4. Release: The complete manifest details required for import release are exclusively accessible to authorized parties via the IRP, provided an 'LSP Handshake' (Logistics Service Provider authorization) has been established with ONE.

Required actions

To ensure your cargo can be released and collected without delays, the following actions are necessary and can be initiated immediately:

  • Customs Agents & Logistic Service Providers: Ensure you have an active NxtPort / IRP contract and that your declaration software supports the IRP Import Consignment API.
  • All Declarants & Importers: Arrange the 'LSP Handshake' with ONE. Contact ONE via email and provide your NxtEntityID and company details. This is essential for accessing cargo details in IRP.
  • NxtEntityID: If you do not yet have an NxtEntityID, please contact NxtPort for onboarding. This ID is mandatory, as it is also required for secure release via Certified Pick up (CPU).

Timely action is crucial to complete operational adjustments before the effective date.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if a B/L follows the old procedure or the new IRP process? This will be
indicated on the Arrival Notice (A/N). If no TSD CRN number is listed, the current process
applies. If a TSD CRN is present, the IRP process must be followed. You can also check
within IRP.

More Information

For further details on the platform, onboarding, and technical guidance, please refer to:

We thank you for your cooperation in implementing these mandatory changes. Together, we will ensure an efficient and compliant flow of goods.


Yours faithfully


Ocean Network Express (Europe) Ltd - Belgium Branch