ISF Deadline Rules & Requirements
Complete guide to Importer Security Filing (ISF) deadline rules and the 10+2 program. Avoid penalties up to $5,000 per violation with proper ISF compliance procedures.
Critical ISF Deadlines
Before Vessel Departure
ISF must be filed at least 24 hours before the vessel departs from the foreign port of lading bound for the United States.
Before US Port Arrival
All ISF data elements must be accurate and complete at least 24 hours before the vessel arrives at the first US port.
What is ISF (10+2)?
The Importer Security Filing (ISF), also known as "10+2," is a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulation requiring importers and vessel operators to provide specific cargo information before goods arrive at US ports.
Importer Responsibilities (10 Elements)
- 1Seller/Manufacturer name and address
- 2Buyer/Owner name and address
- 3Importer of Record number
- 4Consignee number
- 5Country of Origin
- 6Commodity HS-6 code
- 7Container stuffing location
- 8Consolidator name and address
- 9Ship-to party name and address
- 10Manufacturer/Supplier name and address
Carrier Responsibilities (2 Elements)
- 1Vessel stow plan
- 2Container status messages
Who Files ISF?
The importer of record OR their licensed customs broker must file the ISF. Most importers use customs brokers for compliance.
ISF Filing Timeline
Best practice: File ISF as soon as you have complete and accurate information
All 10 ISF elements must be filed before vessel departs foreign port
Amendments allowed if information changes during voyage
All data must be complete and accurate before vessel reaches US port
ISF Penalties & Enforcement
Common Violations
CBP Enforcement Actions
- Cargo examination (Do Not Load orders)
- Container holds at destination port
- Liquidated damages assessment
- Increased scrutiny on future shipments
- Importation privileges suspension
ISF Filing Best Practices
Do's
- File ISF as early as possible (5-7 days before departure)
- Use a licensed customs broker for complex shipments
- Double-check all 10 data elements for accuracy
- Monitor vessel schedules for departure changes
- Keep ISF confirmation numbers for your records
Don'ts
- Don't wait until the last minute to file
- Don't use generic or incomplete supplier information
- Don't file without verifying HS codes
- Don't ignore vessel schedule changes
- Don't attempt to amend ISF after vessel arrival
Need ISF Compliance Help?
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