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The New Computerised Transit System (NCTS) is about to take a significant step forward with the introduction of its latest version, NCTS5, across all European Union (EU) Member States on 21 January 2025. This milestone represents an important evolution for customs transit procedures under the Common Transit Convention (CTC).

NCTS is a digital system designed to streamline customs transit operations, allowing traders, logistics providers, and customs authorities to manage the movement of goods between countries efficiently. It ensures that customs duties and taxes are paid in the destination country, reducing complexity and improving trade flows. Established in 2005, NCTS is now used by 36 countries, including all EU Member States and other CTC members such as Norway, Switzerland, Turkey, and the UK.

The launch of NCTS5 brings a range of improvements, including enhanced data requirements, mandatory six-digit commodity codes, and the ability to include multiple consignors and consignees in a single transit declaration. These changes aim to simplify processes for businesses managing complex shipments. From 21 January, businesses will need to adapt by providing more detailed information, ensuring their systems are updated to meet the new requirements.

Georgia will officially join the CTC and NCTS5 on 1 February 2025. For businesses trading with or through Georgia, this development promises simplified transit procedures, fewer delays, and stronger integration into the European trading system.

The rollout of NCTS5 is a significant milestone in implementing the Union Customs Code Work Programme (UCC Work Programme). CLECAT members, including European freight forwarders, logistics providers, and customs service professionals, are among the primary users of these systems. CLECAT has been actively monitoring the national rollouts and continues to facilitate information exchange between the European logistics industry and the Commission project teams to ensure a smooth transition to NCTS5.