MASP - NCTS Phase 5: mandatory use since Jan. 21, 2025 in Belgium

In the European Union, new policies for electronic procedures are set out in the Multi-Annual Strategic Plan for Electronic Customs (MASP-C). This is a multi-year strategic plan for electronic customs systems. Paper-based customs procedures should be completely replaced by mid-2025.

One of the changes for the Belgian customs landscape is the introduction since January of the New Computerized Transit System (NCTS) Phase 5, which in the Netherlands became mandatory as early as October 2024. The NCTS facilitates electronic administrative processes in external Community transportation of goods. The switch to NCTS Phase 5 is part of the ambition to streamline the system with the Union Customs Code (UCC).

Since Jan. 21, 2025, the use of NCTS Phase 5 has been mandatory in Belgium. The Netherlands and Luxembourg have also already implemented NCTS Phase 5. The Netherlands transitioned on Oct. 29, 2024, and Luxembourg has been live since April 2024.

What will change?

The transition to Phase 5 involves several changes, including:

• Message format: the current edifact structure will be replaced by XML, in accordance with UCC guidelines.
• Data structure: the new dataset is consistent with the European data model (EUCDM).
• HS codes: declarants must now include at least a 6-digit HS code.
• Link with AES: a link is established between NCTS and AES (the replacement for the Belgian TAO list).
• Call segment: the lump sum disappears.
• Pre-lodge: prior declarations (Type D) become possible with a validity period of 30 days.
• House consignments: multiple shipments can be listed on one transit document.
• Although the Sole Document will disappear, the familiar layout of NCTS will remain.

No transition period

Since Jan. 21, 2025, all new transit declarations in Belgium must be compulsorily entered into the new system. No more new declarations can be entered in the old version of the NCTS application (Phase 4). Only ongoing or awaiting movements, started before January 21, 2025, with a departure and arrival in Belgium or with a departure in Belgium and arrival in another country, could still be processed in the old application (Phase 4). 

Want to know more?

More info on this topic can be found on the FPS Customs & Excise website:

financien.belgium.be/en/Actueel/ or https://www.belastingdienst.nl/wps/wcm/connect/bldcontentnl/belastingdienst/douane_voor_bedrijven/vervoer/vervoer/dva/dva-wat-verandert-er-voor-u