Ukraine Has Transitioned to NCTS Phase 6: What Has Changed for International Transport?
Date: June 22, 2026
As of June 22, 2026, Ukraine has officially transitioned to NCTS Phase 6, the latest version of the New Computerised Transit System. This marks the next stage in the implementation of the Common Transit Convention, often referred to as the “customs visa-free regime,” between Ukraine and the European Union.
NCTS enables fully electronic data exchange between customs authorities of participating countries and simplifies the movement of goods across international borders.
What Carriers and Cargo Owners Need to Know
Following the transition to NCTS Phase 6, carriers crossing the EU border through Poland and Slovakia are no longer required to submit an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) in the ICS2 system when using combined transit declarations that include safety and security data.
However, when entering the EU through Romania or Hungary, Ukrainian carriers must submit an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) to ICS2, in addition to the T1 transit declaration, in accordance with EU legislation. The ENS should generally be submitted approximately one hour before the vehicle arrives at the border crossing point.
Benefits of NCTS
The Common Transit System allows goods to move between participating countries under a single transit procedure, eliminating the need for customs clearance at every border crossing.
Key advantages of NCTS include:
A single transit declaration for the entire route;
Faster customs processing;
Fully electronic document flow;
Real-time tracking of transit operations;
Simplified international transportation between Convention member countries.
Prior to Ukraine’s transition to NCTS Phase 6, the following countries had already implemented the new version of the system:
Hungary – January 18, 2026;
Romania – May 25, 2026.
We Help Businesses Adapt to New Requirements
The Crystal Group team continuously monitors changes in customs legislation and transit regulations to ensure that your shipments cross borders smoothly, without delays or unexpected complications.
If you have any questions regarding documentation under NCTS Phase 6, contact our specialists. We will help you prepare the required documents correctly and organize transportation in full compliance with current regulations.
