Importer Security Filing
Importer Security Filing (ISF), also called 10+2, is a US filing that ocean importers must submit to CBP at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded on the vessel abroad.
Why it matters for ecommerce brands
A late or wrong ISF can cost $5,000 per violation and trigger holds or exams, so the filing deadline belongs on every ocean purchase order. The importer submits 10 data elements, including seller, buyer, manufacturer, ship-to party, and HTS codes, at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded abroad, and the carrier adds 2 more. For example, a brand shipping 40 containers a year that files 3 ISFs late faces up to $15,000 in liquidated damages. Send supplier and product details to your broker as soon as you book.
Origin
The Importer Security Filing, or 10+2 rule, was issued by CBP in 2008 under the post-9/11 SAFE Port Act and became fully enforced for ocean imports in January 2010.
Common questions
- When is the ISF due and what happens if it is late?
- The ISF must be filed at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded on the vessel at the foreign port for ocean shipments to the US. Late, inaccurate, or missing filings can bring liquidated damages of up to $5,000 per violation and can trigger holds or exams.
- What is the difference between ISF-10 and ISF-5?
- ISF-10 is filed by the importer for goods entering the US. ISF-5 applies to cargo passing through US ports without entry, such as foreign cargo remaining on board or moving for immediate export, and is filed by the booking party.
- Do I need a bond to file ISF?
- Yes. The ISF filer needs a continuous customs bond or a single-transaction ISF bond. Importers with a continuous bond for entries can usually use it for ISF too.