The Importer Security Filing (ISF), also known as “10+2,” is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirement that mandates importers to submit detailed cargo information before goods are shipped to the United States to enhance security and improve risk assessment.
The ISF requires importers to electronically file ten data elements related to the shipment, such as the name and address of the manufacturer, seller, buyer, and consignee, as well as the country of origin, commodity Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code, and container stuffing location. Additionally, carriers must provide two data elements: the vessel stow plan and container status messages. The ISF must be filed at least 24 hours before the goods are loaded onto the vessel bound for the United States. Non-compliance with ISF requirements can result in significant penalties, cargo holds, and delays. The primary goal of the ISF is to improve the targeting and screening of high-risk shipments, thereby enhancing national security and facilitating legitimate trade.
Importer Security Filing (ISF)