U.S. Importer Security Filing (ISF) Resource Center


Updated Information on U.S. ISF Filing Advance Data Requirements for Ocean Shipments

This resource center includes information regarding the United States’ updated Importer Security Filing and Additional Carrier Requirements, commonly known as “ISF” or “10+2”, and how to file ISF with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)


What is the Importer Security Filing Program?

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enacted the Importer Security Filing to help enhance security and pre-screen ocean cargo imported into the United States.

With enforcement now in full effect, it is more important than ever for filers to have the right technology in place to ensure compliance.

Under the rule, before merchandise arriving by vessel can be imported into the United States, importer or their agent must electronically submit certain advance cargo information to CBP. This requirement only applies to cargo arriving in the United States by ocean vessel.

 


Why Was ISF Implemented?

10+2 was designed to enhance cargo security by requiring additional data elements prior to loading at the foreign port. Some of the additional reasons that ISF was created include the need to:

Identify High-risk Shipments
With accurate data on ocean shipments, potential risks can be identified sooner to improve security
Speed the Movement of Cargo
Improved targeting can result in fewer holds on low-risk shipments to move cargo more quickly
Better Connect the Government & Filers
With digital information provided earlier in the supply chain, the government and trading partners can better communicate
Reduce Paperwork
ISF helps to eliminate paper filings and minimize labor-intensive processes

Who is responsible for filing ISF?


ISF 10+2 expands the responsibility of importers and adds accountability back to the point of container loading.  

The ISF Importer is required to submit the Importer Security Filing. The ISF Importer is the party causing the goods to arrive within the limits of a port in the United States by vessel. Typically, the ISF Importer is the goods’ owner, purchaser, consignee, or agent such as a licensed customs broker.

However, for foreign cargo remaining on board (FROB), the ISF Importer is the carrier. For immediate exportation (IE) and transportation and exportation (T&E) in-bond shipments, and goods to be delivered to a foreign trade zone (FTZ), the ISF Importer is the party filing the IE, T&E, or FTZ documentation.

Why is ISF also called 10+2?

ISF is called 10+2 since there are 10 data items required from the importer or their agent, and 2 data elements required from the carrier.

To be fully ISF 10+2 compliant, the importer must supply:

  1. Seller
  2. Buyer 
  3. Manufacturer
  4. Ship-to Party
  5. Container stuffing location
  6. Consolidator 
  7. Importer of record number/foreign trade zone applicant identification number
  8. Consignee number(s)
  9. Country of origin
  10. Commodity Harmonized Tariff Schedule number to six (6) digits

The carrier must supply:

  1. Container status messages
  2. Ocean vessel stowage plan

What are the penalties associated with non-compliance?

CBP may issue liquidated damages of $5,000 per violation for the submission of an inaccurate, incomplete, or untimely filing. If goods for which an ISF has not been filed arrive in the U.S., CBP may withhold the release or transfer of the cargo; CBP may refuse to grant a permit to unlade for the merchandise; and if such cargo is unladen without permission, it may be subject to seizure. Additionally, noncompliant cargo could be subject to “do not load” orders at origin or further inspection on arrival.

How Descartes Can Help?

As a leading provider of customs compliance solutions Descartes helps organizations comply with ISF 10+2 compliance as well as other security filings worldwide.

Have questions or need more details?

Additional Resources & Helpful Links


Importer Security Filing “10+2” - CBP
Importer Security Filing and Additional Carrier Requirements - CBP
Importer Security Filing (ISF) FAQ
In the News
Descartes Customers Leading the Way With '10+2' Importer Security Filing Success
Resource Center
U.S. Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Resource Center

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