NCTS Phase 5 Update 2024

The deadline for NCTS Phase 5 on 1st December, 2023, will not be met by several EU member states, including the Netherlands. Therefore, Dutch Customs has decided to postpone the release of the New Computerised Transit System (NCTS). In May 2024, Dutch Customs announced that all companies will switch to the new Customs Transit Application (NCTS Phase 5) on October 29. From that date, companies will only be able to submit transit declarations via DVA.

What is NCTS P5 and why is it important?

NCTS plays a crucial role as the digital backbone for electronic transit declarations between countries such as the EU, EFTA, Turkey, North Macedonia, and the UK. Due to legislative changes, particularly from the Union Customs Code (UCC), it requires an update. NCTS Phase 5 is replacing the current NCTS Phase 4. In the Netherlands, NCTS Phase 5 is called Customs Transit Application (DVA).

The core of the transit process in NCTS Phase 5 remains similar, but there are significant changes in the data model, structure, and message exchange. Examples include the shift from a two-layer to a four-layer model and the transition from Edifact to XML communication.

What can the customs sector expect from the NCTS Phase 5 update?

To enhance planning, Customs has invested in external customs software. This software package follows Brussels' specifications for message exchange. The MID (Message Implementation Guide) is expected to be released in October 2023. The exact release date of NCTS P5 will be announced after rescheduling.

Preparing for the NCTS P5 release

For companies in the customs sector, it is crucial to transition to appropriate customs software in a timely manner. This software must meet the new requirements set by NCTS P5. Stay informed with Customs updates and delve into the new content, structures, and message types.

At Gateway, we are committed to a seamless transition to NCTS P5. In collaboration with Customs and the Customs Software Alliance (ADS), we are working on the release calendar for NCTS and other vital customs systems. Thanks to our close ties with Customs, we are always the first to know.

💡 Want to know what changes are coming in NCTS Phase 5? Read our article: What Changes in the Customs Transit Application (DVA)?

The NCTS is a key component of our customs software solutions. For more insight into our automated solutions for NCTS and how they can support your business, please get in touch with us.