An Importer Security Filing, or ISF, is a required U.S. Customs and Border Protection filing for ocean cargo entering the United States. It is commonly called “10+2” because importers submit key shipment data elements and carriers provide additional vessel-related data. ISF information must generally be filed before the cargo is loaded onto a U.S.-bound vessel. The filing helps CBP assess security risk before arrival and includes details such as seller, buyer, importer, consignee, manufacturer, ship-to party, country of origin, and commodity classification.
The Importer Security Filing (ISF), also known as 10+2, is a CBP requirement mandating that importers submit 10 specific data elements at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded onto a vessel destined for the United States. The filing allows CBP to assess security risk before the shipment departs the foreign port.
The 10 Importer-Provided Data Elements
- Seller name and address
- Buyer name and address
- Importer of record number
- Consignee number
- Manufacturer or supplier name and address
- Ship-to party name and address
- Country of origin
- Commodity HTSUS number (first 6 digits)
- Container stuffing location
- Consolidator name and address
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Late, inaccurate, or missing ISF filings can result in CBP liquidated damages of up to $5,000 per violation and increased exam rates.
For related logistics context, see glossary entries on CBP, AMS, Customs Entry, and Importer of Record.
