GLOSSARY
Importer Security Filing (ISF)
U.S. CBP rule requiring importers and ocean carriers to electronically file ten data elements 24 hours before cargo is loaded onto a vessel destined for the United States.
The Importer Security Filing (ISF), commonly called 10+2, is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection rule that requires the importer (or its agent) to file ten data elements electronically with CBP no later than 24 hours before cargo is loaded onto a vessel destined for the United States. Ocean carriers separately file two additional data elements — the vessel stow plan and container status messages.
Why it matters
ISF supports CBP risk targeting before a container leaves the foreign port, and missing or late filings carry liquidated damages of up to $5,000 per violation, capped at $10,000 per shipment. Repeat offenders may see their cargo flagged for additional inspection or held until compliance is verified.
The ten importer-side elements include manufacturer, seller, container stuffing location, consolidator, ship-to party, importer of record number, consignee number, country of origin, HTS-6, and buyer. Most importers route the filing through their customs broker, but the importer of record retains regulatory responsibility.