What is ISF?
Importer Security Filing (ISF) is a CBP rule for ocean shipments to the United States. The importer, or its customs broker, must submit 10 data elements about the cargo, and the carrier adds 2 more. That is why it is known as “10+2”. The filing is due at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto the vessel at the foreign port.
Core principle: ISF lets CBP risk-assess a container before it is loaded abroad. Late or wrong data can cost US$5,000 per violation.
The 10 importer data elements
- Seller
- Buyer
- Importer of record number
- Consignee number
- Manufacturer or supplier
- Ship-to party
- Country of origin
- HTS number (at least 6 digits)
- Container stuffing location
- Consolidator (stuffer)
The carrier supplies the vessel stow plan and container status messages. A shorter version, ISF-5, applies to certain cargo that is not entered in the US, such as cargo remaining on board.
ISF vs AMS
Two filings, two parties
AMS is the carrier’s manifest filing. ISF is the importer’s filing. Both are due 24 hours before loading, and CBP compares them, so inconsistent data between the two is a common trigger for holds and exams.
How to stay compliant
Collect data early
What it is: Ask suppliers for manufacturer, stuffing location and consolidator details as part of every purchase order.
Why it matters: The data must be known before the container is loaded, often days before the vessel sails.
Update when details change
What it is: Amend the ISF if information changes before arrival.
Why it matters: An accurate final filing reduces penalty risk.
Keep it consistent
What it is: Match the ISF with the bill of lading, invoice and entry.
Why it matters: Mismatches increase the chance of a tail gate exam.
The EU has no ISF, but ICS2 requires carriers and, in some cases, freight forwarders to file entry summary declarations for goods entering the EU.
Frequently asked questions
Does ISF apply to air freight?
No. ISF applies only to ocean cargo. Air shipments are screened through Air AMS and ACAS.
What is the penalty for a late ISF?
CBP can assess liquidated damages of US$5,000 per violation, and late filing can also lead to holds and exams.
Who files the ISF?
The ISF importer, usually the buyer or importer of record, often through a customs broker or freight forwarder.
