ISF Filing Requirements: How to File an ISF (10+2)

ISF stands for Importer Security Filing — the shipping document U.S. Customs requires before your ocean cargo can be loaded. A late or missing CBP ISF filing can trigger a $5,000 penalty, which makes understanding this requirement essential for every ocean importer.

The Importer Security Filing (ISF), commonly known as "10+2", is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulation that requires importers and their agents to electronically submit specific shipment information before cargo is loaded onto ocean vessels bound for the United States.

Implemented in 2009 as part of the Security and Accountability For Every Port Act (SAFE Port Act), the ISF requirement was designed to enhance cargo security and improve CBP's ability to identify high-risk shipments before they reach U.S. shores.

Why Was ISF Filing Created?

The ISF requirement addresses a critical security gap in the international supply chain. Before ISF, CBP often received limited advance information about incoming ocean cargo, making it difficult to assess security risks and identify potentially dangerous shipments.

By requiring detailed information 24 hours before cargo is loaded at the foreign port, CBP can:

• Conduct risk assessments before cargo departs foreign ports
• Target high-risk shipments for inspection upon arrival
• Prevent security threats from entering U.S. commerce
• Expedite clearance for compliant, low-risk cargo

The responsibility for filing the ISF falls on the "ISF Importer" – defined by CBP as the party causing goods to arrive within the limits of a port in the United States by vessel. This is typically:

1. 1
   The Goods Owner
   The party who owns the merchandise being imported
2. 2
   The Purchaser
   The party who has purchased or agreed to purchase the goods
3. 3
   The Consignee
   The party to whom the goods are being shipped
4. 4
   The Authorized Agent
   Such as a licensed customs broker acting on behalf of the importer

What Cargo Requires ISF Filing?

ISF filing is required for:

The "10+2" designation refers to the 10 data elements required from the importer and 2 data elements required from the ocean carrier. Let's break down exactly what information you need to provide.

The 10 Importer Elements

1. 1

   Manufacturer (or Supplier) Name and Address

   The name and address of the entity that last manufactures, assembles, produces, or grows the goods, or the supplier if the manufacturer is unknown.

   Example: "ABC Manufacturing Co., 123 Factory Road, Shenzhen, China 518000"

2. 2

   Seller Name and Address

   The last known entity by whom the goods are sold or agreed to be sold. If the goods are to be imported otherwise than in pursuance of a purchase, the name and address of the owner of the goods must be provided.

   Example: "Global Trade LLC, 456 Commerce St, Hong Kong"

3. 3

   Buyer Name and Address

   The last known entity to whom the goods are sold or agreed to be sold. If the goods are to be imported otherwise than in pursuance of a purchase, the name and address of the owner of the goods must be provided.

   Example: "Your Company Inc., 789 Business Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90001"

4. 4

   Ship To Name and Address

   The first deliver-to name and address in the United States, which may be different from the buyer's address.

   Example: "Warehouse ABC, 321 Distribution Center Dr, Long Beach, CA 90802"

5. 5

   Container Stuffing Location

   The name and address of the physical location where the goods were stuffed into the container.

   Example: "Port Logistics Center, Yantian Port, Shenzhen, China"

6. 6

   Consolidator (Stuffer) Name and Address

   The name and address of the party who stuffed the container or the Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) that arranged for the stuffing of the container.

   Example: "Global Freight Services, 555 Logistics Blvd, Shanghai, China"

7. 7

   Importer of Record Number

   The IRS/EIN number, Social Security Number, or CBP assigned number of the entity liable for payment of all duties and responsible for meeting all statutory and regulatory requirements.

   Example: "12-3456789" (EIN format)

8. 8

   Consignee Number

   The IRS/EIN number, Social Security Number, or CBP assigned number of the party to whom the goods will be delivered.

   Example: "98-7654321" (EIN format)

9. 9

   Country of Origin

   The country where the goods were manufactured, produced, or grown as determined by the applicable rules of origin.

   Example: "CN" (China), "MX" (Mexico), "VN" (Vietnam)

10. 10

    Commodity HTSUS Number (6-digit minimum)

    The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States number for the imported goods. While only 6 digits are required for ISF, providing the full 10-digit code is recommended for accuracy.

    Example: "6203.42" or full "6203.42.4011" (men's cotton trousers)

The +2 Carrier Elements

The ocean carrier (shipping line) is responsible for providing these two additional data elements:

1. +1

   Vessel Stow Plan

   Details showing where containers are physically located on the vessel
2. +2

   Container Status Messages

   Updates about container movements, including arrival and discharge information

Timing is critical with ISF filing. Missing the deadline can result in significant penalties and cargo delays. Here's exactly when you need to file:

Understanding the Two Filing Stages

CBP recognizes that some information may not be available 24 hours before loading. Therefore, ISF filing has two stages:

ISF Timeline Example

1. 1
   May 1, 2025 - 12:00 PM
   Your cargo is scheduled to load onto the vessel in Shanghai on May 2 at 12:00 PM
2. 2
   May 1, 2025 - 12:00 PM (DEADLINE)
   ISF must be filed by this time – exactly 24 hours before loading
3. 3
   May 2, 2025 - 12:00 PM
   Cargo loads onto vessel in Shanghai and begins ocean transit (14 days to Los Angeles)
4. 4
   May 15, 2025 - 12:00 PM (24 hrs before arrival)
   Final deadline to update any ISF information before vessel arrives in Los Angeles on May 16

ISF filings must be submitted electronically to CBP through one of two systems: the Automated Broker Interface (ABI) or CBP's Automated Commercial Environment (ACE). Here are your filing options:

Option 1: Hire a Licensed Customs Broker (Recommended)

Best for: Most Importers

The most common and recommended approach is to work with a licensed customs broker who will file your ISF on your behalf. Customs brokers are experts in CBP regulations and have the necessary systems and credentials to file ISFs.

Advantages:

• Expert knowledge of CBP requirements
• Reduced risk of errors and penalties
• They handle all technical filing requirements
• Can coordinate with your freight forwarder
• Often handle customs entry as well

Your Responsibilities:

• Provide complete and accurate information
• Provide information in time to meet the 24-hour deadline
• Verify the information is correct

Option 2: Self-File Through Authorized Software

Best for: Experienced High-Volume Importers

Some large importers choose to file ISFs directly using authorized ISF software providers. This requires more expertise and infrastructure. Learn more about ABI software and how it works.

Requirements:

• Software certified to connect to ACE/ABI
• In-depth knowledge of ISF requirements
• Dedicated compliance staff
• Continuous bond with ISF provisions

Advantages:

• Direct control over filing process
• Potentially lower costs for high volumes
• Immediate visibility into filing status

Step-by-Step Filing Process

1. 1

   Obtain a Customs Bond

   Before you can file an ISF, you must have a customs bond that includes ISF provisions. This can be a single transaction bond or a continuous bond (recommended for frequent importers).
2. 2

   Gather Required Information

   Collect all 10 data elements from your suppliers, manufacturers, and freight forwarders. Start this process as soon as you place your order to ensure you have everything in time.
3. 3

   Verify Information Accuracy

   Double-check all information for accuracy. Pay special attention to addresses, country codes, and HTSUS numbers. Errors can result in penalties.
4. 4

   Submit Filing 24+ Hours Before Loading

   Provide the information to your customs broker or submit through your software at least 24 hours before cargo loads. Earlier is better to allow time for corrections if needed.
5. 5

   Receive Confirmation

   You or your customs broker will receive an acceptance message from CBP confirming the ISF was received and accepted.
6. 6

   Update if Necessary

   If any information changes or if you filed preliminary information, submit updates before the cargo arrives (at least 24 hours before arrival at the first U.S. port).
7. 7

   Monitor for CBP Requests

   Stay alert for any questions or additional information requests from CBP regarding your ISF. Respond promptly to avoid delays or holds on your cargo.

CBP takes ISF compliance seriously. Failure to file an ISF accurately and on time can result in significant financial penalties and operational disruptions.

Types of Violations

• Late Filing

  Filing the ISF after the 24-hour deadline before vessel loading, even by a few minutes

• Inaccurate Information

  Providing incorrect data elements, such as wrong manufacturer addresses, incorrect HTSUS codes, or false country of origin

• Incomplete Filing

  Missing one or more of the required 10 data elements

• No Filing

  Failing to file an ISF at all for cargo that requires it

Additional Consequences

Beyond financial penalties, ISF violations can result in:

Learn from others' mistakes. Here are the most common ISF filing errors and how to prevent them:

• Mistake #1: Waiting Until the Last Minute

  The mistake

  Many importers wait until right before the 24-hour deadline to gather information and file their ISF. If there's any missing or incorrect information, there's no time to fix it before the deadline.

  Solution:

  Start gathering ISF information as soon as you place your purchase order. Aim to file at least 48-72 hours before the loading deadline to allow time for corrections.
• Mistake #2: Using Generic "Unknown" Information

  The mistake

  Filing an ISF with placeholder information like "Unknown" or "To Be Advised" for required fields is a violation, even if you plan to update it later.

  Solution:

  Work closely with your suppliers to ensure you have real, specific information for all data elements. If certain information isn't available, wait to file until you have it rather than filing incomplete data.
• Mistake #3: Incorrect HTSUS Classification

  The mistake

  Guessing at the HTSUS code or using an outdated classification is one of the most common errors. Wrong codes can lead to penalties and duty assessment issues.

  Solution:

  Research the correct HTSUS code using the official database at hts.usitc.gov. When in doubt, consult with your customs broker or request a binding ruling from CBP. Learn proper classification in our HTS classification guide.
• Mistake #4: Wrong Manufacturer vs. Supplier

  The mistake

  Confusing the manufacturer with the supplier is a frequent error. CBP wants to know where the goods were actually made, not just who sold them to you.

  Solution:

  Ask your supplier for the specific factory name and address where goods were manufactured. If unknown, you can use the supplier's information but must make reasonable efforts to identify the actual manufacturer.
• Mistake #5: Failing to Update Changed Information

  The mistake

  Filing the ISF and then forgetting to update it when details change (like the ship-to address or container number) can result in penalties for inaccurate information.

  Solution:

  Maintain communication with all parties in your supply chain. If anything changes, update your ISF immediately, but no later than 24 hours before vessel arrival.
• Mistake #6: Not Having a Proper Customs Bond

  The mistake

  Attempting to file an ISF without an active customs bond that includes ISF provisions will result in rejection of your filing.

  Solution:

  Secure a continuous customs bond before you start importing. Work with your customs broker or a surety company to ensure your bond includes all necessary provisions, including ISF coverage.

Follow these industry best practices to ensure smooth, compliant ISF filing every time: