What is an Importer Security Filing (ISF 10+2), and do I need one?

An ISF, also called "10+2," is advance cargo information that CBP requires for goods arriving in the US by ocean vessel. If you import by sea, you need one, and it must be filed before the cargo is loaded at the foreign port. It does not apply to air freight.

What it is

CBP's rule is called Importer Security Filing and Additional Carrier Requirements. CBP says it "applies to import cargo arriving to the United States by vessel." The importer, or an authorized agent such as a customs broker, files it electronically. Under the regulation, bulk cargo is handled separately from the standard filing.

CBP says failing to comply "could ultimately result in monetary penalties, increased inspections and delay of cargo." CBP's ISF FAQ says the customs bond regulations provide for liquidated damages of $5,000 per violation.

Do you need one?

Ask two questions:

1. Is the shipment coming by sea? If yes, an ISF is required. If it comes by air, truck or rail, the ISF doesn't apply.
2. Are you the ISF importer? Under 19 CFR 149.1, that is the party causing the goods to arrive by vessel: the owner, purchaser, consignee, or an agent such as a licensed customs broker. If your supplier sells delivered duty paid, ask who files.

The 10 data elements the importer provides

Under 19 CFR 149.3, the importer's ten items are:

1. Seller name and address
2. Buyer name and address
3. Importer of record number (or foreign trade zone applicant ID)
4. Consignee number
5. Manufacturer or supplier name and address
6. Ship-to party
7. Country of origin
8. Commodity HTS number, to at least six digits
9. Container stuffing location
10. Consolidator (stuffer)

The "+2" are two items the ocean carrier supplies: the vessel stow plan and container status messages.

Several of these come from your supplier, so ask for the factory address, the stuffing location and the consolidator early.

When it is due

Per 19 CFR 149.2, the seller, buyer, importer of record, consignee, manufacturer, ship-to party, country of origin and HTS items are due no later than 24 hours before the cargo is loaded aboard the vessel at the foreign port. Container stuffing location and consolidator are due as early as possible, and no later than 24 hours before arrival at a US port.

That deadline is the catch. The filing is due before the ship sails, so don't wait until the goods are on the water.

Who files it

Many importers have their customs broker or freight forwarder file it, based on the details you provide. You are still the importer, so check what gets submitted. Our guide on customs brokers covers what a broker does.

The filing also needs a bond. CBP's ISF FAQ says a standard ISF must be secured by a continuous bond or a single transaction bond on file in ACE. You can use your own continuous importer bond, or a broker can let its bond secure your filing if it agrees in writing. Our guide on customs bonds explains the options.

How Shield fits

Ocean shipments mean a supplier invoice, freight charges and often a broker fee. Shield offers overseas payments in dollars or stablecoins, plus a business credit card, so you can pay those costs from one account. Owners can live outside the US, with a US company.

FAQ

Is an ISF the same as a customs entry? No. The ISF is advance security data sent before loading. Entry is the separate filing that clears the goods and pays duties.

Do I need an ISF for air freight? No. CBP says the rule applies to cargo arriving by vessel.

Who is responsible if the data is wrong? The importer. A broker may file for you, but CBP's tips for new importers say the importer of record is ultimately responsible for the correctness of the entry documentation. Check the supplier details before you send them.

Next step

To see how Shield helps you pay suppliers and freight costs, visit Shield stablecoin payments.