CUSTOMS SYSTEM MAINTENANCE & ECUS6 BACKUP SOLUTION
In the past week, the Customs authority has issued several “Urgent” and “Top Priority” notices regarding the operation of the electronic customs clearance system.
These updates have a direct impact on businesses’ declaration and clearance activities in the short term.
These updates have a direct impact on businesses’ declaration and clearance activities in the short term.
1. System Suspension for Maintenance
The Customs authority has announced a temporary suspension of declaration processing during two maintenance periods of the Data Center:
- Phase 1: April 19 – April 20, 2026
- Phase 2: April 26 – April 27, 2026
During these periods, the electronic system will not process declarations as usual. Businesses are therefore advised to prepare alternative solutions to avoid disruptions in their supply chains.
2. Backup Plan: Using ECUS6 System
According to Urgent Official Dispatch No. 15430/CHQ-GSQL, businesses are instructed to switch to the ECUS6 software to perform customs procedures during the maintenance period.
This is a technical backup solution designed to:
- Ensure continuity of customs clearance operations
- Minimize congestion and delays in cargo handling
- Maintain uninterrupted logistics and supply chain operations
3. Guidelines for Authorized Economic Operators (AEOs)
During the suspension of the VNACCS/VCIS system, AEOs may choose one of the following options:
Option 1: Paper-based declaration
- Use form HQ/2015/XK (Appendix IV – Circular 39/2018/TT-BTC)
- Submit 2 original copies along with the customs dossier
- Follow procedures under Decision 1966/QĐ-TCHQ
Option 2: Incomplete declaration form
- Form No. 08/TKCHC (Appendix XI – Circular 121/2025/TT-BTC)
- Follow guidance under Decision 2123/QĐ-CHQ
- Applicable to qualified AEOs
For regular businesses (non-AEOs), the paper-based declaration method should be applied.
4. Coordination Requirements & Issue Handling
- Customs Sub-Departments will maintain separate monitoring records during system downtime
- Businesses should proactively contact the ECUS support team under Dispatch No. 19548/CHQ-GSQL for assistance
- Post-maintenance results will be consolidated and reported to the Customs Department before May 8, 2026
5. Recommendations
To ensure uninterrupted import-export operations, businesses should:
- Closely monitor the system maintenance schedule
- Prepare backup declaration solutions (ECUS6 / paper-based)
- Review documentation carefully before submission to avoid errors during manual processing
- Coordinate closely with logistics providers and customs brokers
Conclusion:
System maintenance is necessary to enhance long-term operational efficiency. However, in the short term, businesses must proactively adapt to avoid clearance disruptions and unnecessary costs.
System maintenance is necessary to enhance long-term operational efficiency. However, in the short term, businesses must proactively adapt to avoid clearance disruptions and unnecessary costs.
Need support for customs procedures & logistics?
THT Cargo Logistics is ready to support your business in all situations—from declaration handling and policy consulting to ensuring fast and efficient customs clearance.
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