Importer Security Filing (ISF) (10+2)
ISF was enacted by Customs and Border Protection(CBP) to help focus enforcement on high risk shipments by identifying them prior to arriving in the United States. This additional step helps CBP move legitimate shipments into the US faster while stopping shipments that pose a security threat.
ISF-What you need to know
Who must file?
The importer of record is responsible to ensure the Importer Security Filing (ISF) is submitted to CBP no later than 24 hours before goods are loaded onto the vessel destined to the United States. Many Importers appoint a Customs Broker, CUSTOMS GURUS, to submit ISF on their behalf.
What information is needed to file?
Importers most likely get an ISF information sheet from their overseas vendors. Customs Gurus provides an ISF template on our documents page.
Manufacture (or supplier) name and address
Seller name and address
Buyer name and address
Ship-to name and address
Container stuffing location name and address
Consolidator (stuffer) name and address
Importer of record ID number
Consignee ID number
Country of Origin
Commodity Harmonized Tariff Schedule number (6 digits)
The carrier provides the +2 elements
What if it is filed late?
The ISF Filing is required to be filed 24 hours before the goods are loaded onto the foreign vessel destined to the United States. Anything filed later than 24 hours prior to loading is considered late and subjects the importer to a penalty in the amount of $5,000 for each violation. Nearly all late filings will be held at the port of unlading for a customs exam at the expense of the importer.