Enhancement to the Integrated Cargo System (ICS)
Reporting changes to sub‑manifests (CRNs) -
Effective from May 2026 (ICS release 26.4.01)
This information is for:
- exporters
- freight forwarders
- consolidators
- cargo reporters
- Cargo Terminal Operators (CTOs)
who create, receive, or manage sub‑manifests in the Integrated Cargo System (ICS).
What is changing
From May 2026, Cargo Report Numbers (CRNs) will move through Idle and Revoked status in ICS, aligned with the existing framework used for Export Declaration Numbers (EDNs).
This change re‑activates an existing ICS process so that sub‑manifests are managed more consistently and accurately.
Why this change is being made
Currently, CRNs do not automatically move through Idle and Revoked status in the same way as EDNs. This can result in:
- inactive or outdated CRNs remaining active in the ICS
- duplicate or incorrect export reporting
- clearance delays caused by inaccurate export records.
Applying the Idle and Revoked framework to CRNs will:
- reduce inactive or duplicate CRNs in ICS
- improve data quality and consistency across export reporting
- support smoother export clearance.
How CRN status will work
CRNs moving to Idle
A CRN may move to Idle status when all the following apply:
- the CRN is not linked to a manifest or sub‑manifest
- there is no CTO ‘received’ status (or it was later removed)
- 10 days have passed since the CRN Date of Departure.
This mirrors the approach already applied to EDNs.
CRNs moving to Revoked
If no action is taken on an Idle CRN, it may move to
Revoked status in line with ICS business rules.
When a CRN is revoked:
- the lines reported on the CRN will no longer be linked
- related CRNs and associated EDNs may also move to
Idle
- related CRNs and associated EDNs may later be revoked if no action is taken.
Progression from Idle to Revoked occurs based on the export date information held in ICS.
What this means for industry
If a CRN becomes Idle or Revoked:
- linked reporting may be affected
- additional system messages may be issued
- clearance delays may occur if records are not updated.
Where required, clients must contact their freight forwarder or shipping company to amend existing reports and ensure reporting remains accurate and compliant.
What you need to do
Monitor
ICS messages
Watch for a CUSRES – Idle EDN/CRN Advice (IDL) message.
This message is sent when a CRN or EDN has not progressed within the required timeframe.
Note: Idle advice messages are not issued for cargo older than six months.
Take action when you receive an IDL message
When you receive an IDL message, take one action in ICS:
Delayed shipment - update the relevant date. The new date must be no more than 180 days after the transaction date.
- EDN:
Intended Date of Export
- CRN:
Date of Departure.
Cancelled shipment - withdraw the export declaration.
Already exported - ensure the goods are correctly manifested. For example, that the goods are linked to a valid Export Main Manifest (EMM) or Export Sub‑manifest (ESM).
Key timeframes
The following are some key timeframes that we want you to be aware of:
- 10 days - a CRN may move to Idle if it is not linked and has no CTO ‘received’ status
- Idle advice (IDL) message issued - prompts action to update, withdraw, or correctly link the report
- Around 30 days - an Idle CRN may progress to Revoked if no action is taken.
What hasn’t changed
- Export reporting obligations under the
Customs Act 1901 remain unchanged
- Existing ICS reporting, record‑keeping and clearance requirements continue to apply.
Further guidance
You can find more information on our website:
