Import Security Filing (10+2)

See and download ISF Form here

The Importer Security Filing (ISF) program, also known as the "10+2 Rule," is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulation that requires importers or their authorized agents to provide specific information about their shipments before they arrive in the United States.

Under the ISF program, importers are obligated to submit a comprehensive set of data elements to CBP at least 72 hours (or 3 days) before the goods are loaded onto a vessel destined for the U.S. This advance information helps CBP to assess any potential security risks associated with the imported cargo.

The "10+2" refers to the ten data elements that must be provided by the importer, including:

1. Manufacturer (or supplier) name and address
2. Seller (or owner) name and address
3. Buyer (or owner) name and address
4. Ship-to name and address
5. Consignee name and address
6. Importer of record number/FTZ applicant identification number (if applicable)
7. Consignee number(s) (IRS, social security, or CBP assigned number)
8. Country of origin
9. Harmonized System (HS) code at the 6-digit level
10. Container stuffing location

The "+2" refers to the two data elements that must be filed by the carrier or authorized agent:

1. Vessel stowage location information
2. Container status message (indicating whether the container is full or empty)

Compliance with the ISF program is crucial for importers as failure to meet the requirements may result in up to $5,000 penalty issued by CBP. It is important for importers to provide the appropriate paperwork to ensure timely and accurate filing of the required information to CBP.