How to File ISF Online: Step-by-Step U.S. Customs Guide
Author:
Divya Murugan
Published On:
Jun 25, 2025
1 min read
Importing goods into the U.S. by ocean freight? You must file an Importer Security Filing (ISF) at least 24 hours before your cargo is loaded onto a vessel bound for the U.S. It’s a mandatory pre-shipment declaration that gives U.S. Customs advance visibility into your shipment details. Failing to file on time can lead to costly penalties, cargo delays, or even refused entry. Yet many importers are unsure about the process, timelines, or what information is required. This blog simplifies it all—perfect for first-time importers or anyone looking to handle ISF filing themselves without a customs broker.
Key Takeaways
ISF must be filed at least 24 hours before vessel loading for all U.S. ocean imports.
Importers can file via a customs broker or CBP-approved online portal. You must file your ISF electronically through these authorized methods, and it's important to choose a cost effective option to minimize expenses.
Filing errors or delays can lead to $5,000 fines and cargo holds.
Early filing with accurate data and timely updates ensures smooth clearance.
What Is ISF?
ISF stands for Importer Security Filing, also known as “10+2.” It’s a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulation that requires importers to electronically submit specific data points at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto a vessel bound for the United States. The ISF form is the critical document required by CBP for ocean shipments, and it must be completed accurately and submitted on time to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
The ISF rule was implemented under the SAFE Port Act and the Trade Act to enhance cargo security and compliance. ISF filing requirements, as mandated by CBP, include the online submission of required data from multiple sources for all containerized cargo. It enables CBP to identify high-risk shipments and detect or prevent illegal activities, such as smuggling, during the import process.
The purpose? To help CBP assess security risks and prevent illegal shipments from entering the country. Failing to file it correctly or on time can result in penalties, shipment delays, and cargo holds.
Want to make sure you’re filing on time? Read: [ISF Deadline: What to Know]
Who Is Responsible for Filing ISF?
If you’re the Importer of Record, you are responsible for filing ISF. As the ISF importer, you are the party responsible for submitting the required data to CBP and ensuring that filings are timely and accurate to comply with regulations. The buyer is also a key party in the ISF process, as their information must be accurately provided in the import documentation. For certain types of shipments, such as FROB, IE, and T&E, the booking party information must also be submitted as part of the ISF data. That means you must ensure all data is accurate and submitted before the deadline. You can either file it yourself or authorize a licensed customs broker or freight forwarder to file it on your behalf.
What Does “10+2” Mean?
The term refers to the 10 data elements the importer must provide, plus 2 more elements submitted by the carrier (commonly referred to as the ‘two additional data elements’).
Before filing, it is crucial to collect all the required information to ensure a successful ISF submission and avoid potential penalties. The commercial invoice is often used to obtain the necessary data for the ISF, as it contains many of the details needed for compliance.
Required Data from the Importer (10 Elements):
Seller's name and address
Buyer's name and address
Importer of Record number
Consignee number
Manufacturer or supplier name and address
Ship-to name and address
Country of origin of the goods
Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) number
Container stuffing location
Consolidator (stuffer) name and address
Carrier Provides (2):
Vessel stow plan
Container status messages
Step-by-Step: How to File ISF Online
Step 1: Collect All Required Information
Start by gathering the 10 data elements mentioned above. You’ll often need to work closely with your supplier, manufacturer, or freight forwarder to collect these details. Don’t wait until the last moment—some information can take time to confirm.
Depending on the shipment, you may also need to provide additional information to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
For containerized cargo, specific data elements must be collected to comply with ISF requirements and U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations.
Check every data point for accuracy. A simple typo or outdated address can cause your filing to be rejected or flagged by Customs.
Step 2: Decide How You’ll File
You have two main options:
You can self-file your ISF, which means you take responsibility for submitting all required information directly to U.S. Customs. Importers can use the ACE Portal to file ISF online, making the process more efficient and manageable.
Alternatively, you can hire a customs broker or freight forwarder to handle the filing on your behalf.
Option 1: Use a Licensed Customs Broker
Most importers take this route, especially if they don’t want to deal with U.S. Customs systems directly. You share your documents, and the broker files the ISF through CBP’s Automated Broker Interface (ABI).
Pros:
No need to learn the filing system
The broker handles everything
Safer if you’re unsure about data accuracy
Brokers can assist with obtaining an ISF bond to ensure customs compliance, especially for importers without a continuous bond.
For frequent importers, brokers can help set up a continuous bond, which streamlines the clearance process.
Cons:
You’ll pay broker fees (typically $35–$75 per ISF)
Looking for an easy way to file ISF? Try this tool: [ISF Filing Software]
Option 2: File Yourself Through an Online Portal
If you prefer a hands-on approach, you can file ISF using online filing services like ISFWizard, Customs City, or Simplified Entry platforms. These are CBP-approved portals designed for self-filing importers.
Pros:
Lower cost (some services charge $25–$35 per ISF)
Full control over the process
Useful for experienced importers or low-volume shipments
Cons:
Requires attention to detail
You’ll be responsible for all errors
For one-time ISF filings, a single transaction bond may be required to cover your shipment
Step 3: File the ISF
Once you’ve chosen how to file and gathered your data, it’s time to submit the ISF. If you're filing through a broker, send them the required documents (usually via email). If you're using an online system, carefully fill out the form fields and submit.
You’ll typically receive a transaction number or confirmation receipt once CBP accepts the filing.
Step 4: Verify Filing Status
Always confirm that Customs have successfully accepted your ISF. Your broker or online portal should be able to confirm this and share a copy of the confirmation.
Confirming ISF acceptance is essential to clear customs without delays.
Also, double-check with your freight forwarder or carrier to ensure they see the ISF on file. Some airlines require this before they allow containers to be loaded at the origin.
Step 5: Update If Necessary
You can file an ISF amendment if any information changes after you file—such as vessel schedules, consignee details, or HTS codes. This is only possible before the vessel arrives in the U.S. In some cases, amendments may require canceling or updating the original filing with CBP, so it's important to coordinate with CBP representatives to manage the status of your original filing.
Corrections are no longer accepted once cargo is in transit or has landed, and penalties may apply for incorrect data.
What Happens If You Don’t File ISF?
Not filing, filing late, or submitting inaccurate information can result in:
CBP penalties up to $5,000 per shipment
Cargo delays or holds at the U.S. port
Higher scrutiny on future shipments
Possible refusal of release
ISF requirements apply specifically to ocean shipments and ocean cargo entering the U.S. For break bulk cargo, the ISF must be filed at least 24 hours before the vessel arrives to ensure proper safety and security checks. Bulk cargo, which consists of large quantities of unpackaged goods, is treated differently from break-bulk or containerized cargo and may have specific ISF filing requirements.
Missed the filing deadline? Here’s how to recover: [Late ISF Filing: What It Means and How to Avoid Penalties]
Penalties are real—and they’re enforced. Customs may allow waivers or mitigations under special circumstances, but it’s not something to count on.
How to Amend an ISF Filing
If your shipment details change after filing, don’t panic. You can file an amendment anytime before the vessel arrives at the first U.S. port, as long as the goods haven’t landed. If you filed without a customs broker, a CBP client representative may assist you in amending or canceling your ISF filing.
What Can Be Amended?
Country of origin
Manufacturer or supplier
HTSUS code
Ship-to party
Consignee number
Container stuffing location
(You cannot amend the two carrier-submitted elements.)
How to Amend
Broker Route: Share updated info with your broker — they’ll resubmit via CBP ABI.
Self-Filing: Use your portal’s “amend” option and submit corrected data. Always retain updated confirmation.
Why It Matters
If you don’t amend, you risk:
$5,000 per error
Shipment delays or holds
Stricter customs scrutiny on future entries
CBP may issue fines and liquidated damages for non-compliance with ISF requirements. Specifically, CBP can issue liquidated damages of $5,000 per violation for inaccurate, incomplete, or late filings. Non compliance with ISF regulations can result in significant financial penalties.
How to Stay Compliant Going Forward
Build a checklist of required ISF elements, as ISF compliance is a critical part of the overall importing process.
File as early as possible (even if all data isn’t finalized, you can amend)
Work with trusted suppliers and freight forwarders who understand the process
Maintain records of all filings, receipts, and confirmations for audits
New to ISF? Get the full picture here: Importer Security Filing Software
Final Thoughts
Filing an ISF online doesn’t have to be overwhelming. While it’s one of the most critical steps in the import process, it becomes much easier once you understand what details to collect, when to file, and how the process works. With the right tools, it can even become a seamless part of your import workflow.
Whether you prefer working with a broker for added peace of mind or want the flexibility and cost savings of filing it yourself, having a reliable system in place is key. CargoEZ simplifies ISF filing with a user-friendly interface, helping you stay compliant, avoid penalties, and keep your shipments on track—without added stress.
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between ISF and AMS filing—and do I need both?
Yes, both are required for ocean imports but serve different purposes. ISF is filed by the importer (10+2 data) and must be submitted before loading at origin. AMS (Automated Manifest System) is filed by the carrier and reports manifest-level data to Customs. ISF is about security screening; AMS is about cargo visibility and clearance.
2. Can I file an ISF with estimated data if final documents aren’t ready?
Yes—filing with best-available data is better than missing the deadline. CBP allows amendments later. Many importers file early using commercial invoices and purchase orders, then update once final documents (like the bill of lading) are issued.
3. Is there a penalty for incorrect ISF data even if I filed on time?
Absolutely. Timeliness alone isn’t enough—accuracy matters just as much. Incorrect data (wrong HTS code, missing parties, etc.) can trigger penalties up to $5,000 per violation, even if you met the deadline.
4. What does CBP consider a “significant” change that requires an ISF amendment?
Changes to critical fields like the ship-to party, HTS code, container stuffing location, or consignee number require an amendment. Minor address typos or formatting differences may not, but best practice is to amend when in doubt—CBP flags mismatches.
5. Does CBP provide any grace period or mitigation options for late ISF filings?
Mitigation is possible, but not guaranteed. CBP may reduce fines for first-time offenses, clerical errors, or if you show a history of compliance. You’ll need to file a petition and provide evidence. But don’t rely on grace—it’s discretionary, not policy.
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