What is Import Security Filing (ISF) in Shipping ?

What is an Importer Security Filing (ISF)?

Importer Security Filing (ISF) is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulation that secures cargo entering the United States. Implemented under the Security and Accountability for Every (SAFE) Port Act, ISF aims to identify high-risk shipments and provide critical information before cargo arrives on U.S. soil. That’s why it’s essential to file ISF correctly and on time.

ISF, also known as ISF 10+2, went into effect on January 26, 2009. It requires importers to submit 12 specific data elements about their shipments.ISF helps keep U.S. ports safe by sharing key shipment details in advance.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection requires an ISF to be filed for all ocean cargo to the United States. This includes information about the seller, buyer, and shipping information to help customs officials identify and mitigate threats. Understanding ISF and its requirements is essential for importers to comply and avoid penalties.

ISF Data Elements

To ensure smooth and compliant ISF filing, importers and carriers must submit specific data elements. The “10+2” rule includes 10 key details from importers and 2 from carriers. Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s required.

10 Importer-Provided Elements

The data elements importers or their agents must provide are key to the ISF filing process. The ISF form requires 10 specific data points, commonly called the “10+2” elements. These include:

• Seller

• Buyer

• Importer of Record number/FTZ Applicant ID number 

• Consignee number 

• Manufacturer (or supplier) 

• Ship to party 

• Country of origin 

• Harmonized Tariff Schedule number 

• Container stuffing location 

• Consolidator (stuffer)

2 Carrier-Provided Elements

In addition to the importer’s 10 elements, carriers must provide 2 critical data points:

• Vessel stow plan

• Container status messages

These elements help U.S. Customs and Border Protection assess the security and compliance of each shipment.

Filing Deadlines and Requirements

Meeting filing deadlines is crucial in the ISF filing process. CBP requires the ISF to be filed electronically at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded on the vessel at the foreign port. This advance notice allows customs to perform security assessments and ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.

For specific cargo types, like break bulk cargo, ISF must be filed with advance cargo information 24 hours before the shipment arrives at the U.S. port. Non-compliance with these deadlines can result in cargo holds and delays until the required information is provided and reviewed by customs.

To avoid untimely filing and the associated consequences, importers must work closely with customs brokers and compliance solutions. These resources ensure all ISF requirements are met accurately and on time, reducing the risk of supply chain disruptions.

Pro Tip: Set calendar reminders 48 hours before loading to avoid last-minute rushes. Better yet, use tools like CargoEZ to track deadlines, store documentation, and stay ahead of compliance requirements-all in one place.

Read more in our blog: “Import Security Filing (ISF) Deadline: What to Know”

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with ISF requirements can be costly, especially for small businesses. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may impose fines of up to $10,000 for serious violations, such as late or incomplete filings. Each inaccurate ISF filing can result in a $5,000 penalty, which can quickly add up and place a heavy financial burden on importers managing tight budgets.

First-time offenders may have their penalties reduced, but this should not be relied upon. Liquidated damages for ISF violations are initiated directly at the ports within 90 days of a violation being discovered, so it’s essential to adhere to all import laws and regulations strictly.

Read our blog: “Late ISF Filing: What It Means and How to Avoid Penalties”

Who Files ISF?

The ISF Importer-usually the buyer, owner, or agent-is responsible for filing the ISF. This party causes the goods to arrive at a U.S. port via vessel and can file the ISF directly if they have a CBP account and the proper software.

Many importers work with a licensed customs broker to manage their ISF filings. These brokers can file the ISF on behalf of the importer, provided they have the power of attorney. The involvement of customs brokers or third-party agents ensures all ISF requirements are met accurately and efficiently.

Vendors overseas often assist U.S. importers in gathering the container information required for the ISF, including the container stuffing location. This collaboration is critical for timely and accurate submissions addressing seller information and other data elements.

Types of Shipments and Exemptions

Not every shipment coming into the U.S. needs an ISF filing. For example, if your shipment is valued under $800, you might qualify for the low-value exemption, which can help small businesses or individuals import low-cost items.

If your goods are just passing through the U.S. - like if they’re being imported only to be immediately exported or transported to another country without entering U.S. commerce - they fall under the immediate exportation exemption.

Then there’s FROB (Foreign Cargo Remaining On Board), which applies when cargo stays on the vessel and is not unloaded in the U.S. and is headed straight to another destination.

Specific shipments covered by a CBP bond might also be exempt if the bond provides sufficient security measures. Lastly, shipments for the military - those destined for U.S. Armed Forces use - often don’t require ISF filing either, provided the proper documentation is in place.

Bond Requirements for ISF

A customs bond guarantees that importers will comply with customs regulations and pay duties owed. To get a customs bond, importers must work with a surety company that ensures compliance with U.S. customs regulations.

Importers can choose between two types of bonds for ISF filing:

• Single Transaction Bond: Covers individual shipments one at a time.

• Continuous Bond: Covers multiple shipments over a year.

The bond amount for a Continuous Bond is calculated based on the importer’s duties from the previous year.

Continuous bonds offer more flexibility, especially for importers with varying yearly shipment volumes.

How to File ISF

ISF filings must be submitted electronically through automated systems like ABI (Automated Broker Interface) or ACE (Automated Commercial Environment). These platforms streamline the process by enabling real-time communication between importers, customs brokers, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Importers often work with licensed customs brokers or third-party software providers who help ensure that all required data elements are accurately reported and filed on time. Using ABI or ACE meets regulatory requirements, reduces manual errors, and avoids costly delays or penalties, making ISF compliance more efficient and reliable for everyone involved.

Amending and Cancelling ISF

Sometimes things change, and when it comes to importing, that’s completely normal. Maybe the container number is updated, or the goods you planned to import aren’t shipping. In such cases, you must amend or cancel your Importer Security Filing (ISF).

Here’s how it works:

• Timing is everything. You must make any changes or cancellations before the vessel arrives at the discharge port. Once the shipment enters U.S. port limits, it’s too late.

  
  

• Only the original filer can make updates. Whether it was you, your customs broker, or a third-party filing on your behalf, whoever submitted the ISF is the only one who can modify or cancel it.
  
  

• How to amend an ISF:
  Log in to the system you used to file - typically ABI or ACE. From there, you can update key details like:

  • The container number

  • Consignee or seller information

  • Description of the cargo
    
    

• Need to cancel the ISF?
  If the shipment is no longer happening, you can cancel the filing altogether - just make sure to do it before the vessel reaches U.S. waters.
  
  

• Why it matters:
  Staying on top of ISF amendments or cancellations helps you avoid compliance issues, potential penalties, and customs delays. It also ensures your filings are accurate and up to date - something CBP takes seriously.

ISF Compliance Assistance

Filing ISF (Importer Security Filing) can be tricky - there’s a lot to keep track of, and mistakes can lead to delays or penalties. The good news? You don’t have to manage it all on your own.

Today, innovative tools and expert services take the guesswork out of ISF. They help automate the filing process, ensure everything’s accurate, and keep you compliant with the latest requirements.

Summary

In summary, the Importer Security Filing (ISF) is key to ensuring cargo security and compliance when entering the United States. By understanding the data elements, filing deadlines, and penalties for non-compliance, importers can manage their ISF requirements and avoid disruptions.

Automated systems and expert help can simplify the ISF filing process and ensure accuracy and efficiency. By being proactive and informed, importers can navigate international shipping with confidence.

FAQs

1. What is ISF, and who needs to file it?

ISF (Importer Security Filing) is a U.S. Customs requirement for ocean imports. If you ship goods into the U.S. by sea, you must submit key shipment details to Customs before the cargo leaves the foreign port. This applies to importers or their authorized agents, like customs brokers.

2. What happens if I don’t file ISF on time?

Missing or incorrect ISF filings can result in serious consequences. U.S. Customs may issue penalties of up to $5,000 per violation, delay your shipment, or even deny entry. Filing on time and accurately is critical to avoid costly disruptions.

3. Is ISF required for all types of shipments?

ISF is only required for ocean shipments entering the U.S. It doesn’t apply to air, rail, or truck cargo. If your shipment passes through the U.S. en route to another country, a different ISF type may be needed (ISF-5 instead of ISF-10).

4. Can I file an ISF or need a broker?

Yes, you can file ISF if you're familiar with the process and have access to the proper electronic systems. However, most importers work with a licensed customs broker or use ISF software to simplify the process and ensure accuracy. These tools are built to guide you through filing and help reduce errors.

5. How does ISF software help?

ISF software automates much of the process by:

• Validating the required data fields

• Reducing manual entry errors

• Tracking filing status in real time

• Sending alerts for deadlines or corrections

Some platforms even integrate with freight forwarders or logistics systems, making data transfer seamless and filings faster.

6. Can I amend or cancel an ISF after filing?

Yes. If you spot a mistake or if shipment details change, you can amend or cancel the ISF-but only before the cargo arrives at the U.S. port. Corrections can be submitted using the same method you used to file, whether through your broker or ISF software.

7. What documents do I need before filing an ISF?

Before you file, you'll typically need:

• Commercial invoice

• Bill of lading (or booking confirmation)

• Manufacturer/supplier info

• HTS codes for the goods

• Container stuffing and consolidator details

Gathering this information early helps ensure your ISF is filed completely and correctly.