Importing by Ocean? Don’t Miss Your ISF Deadline

As your customs broker, I want to help you avoid a costly mistake: waiting too long to provide the information needed for your Importer Security Filing (ISF).

ISF, commonly known as “10+2,” is an electronic filing submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It provides advance information about your ocean shipment, including the parties involved, the merchandise, and its country of origin, so CBP can assess security risks.

When is it due?

For most containerized ocean imports, the main ISF information must be filed at least 24

hours before your cargo is loaded onto the vessel at the foreign port for shipment to the United States. Certain information has a later deadline, and special rules apply to some cargo types.

Please contact me before loading—not when your shipment is already on the water.

Why is timely filing important?

CBP may assess $5,000 in liquidated damages per violation for late, inaccurate, or incomplete filings. ISF problems may also result in cargo holds, examinations, and delays that generate additional expenses.

ISF is separate from customs clearance. Having your shipping documents ready for arrival does not replace the advance filing requirement.

What do I need from you?

Send me your commercial invoice, completed ISF information, bill of lading details, and expected loading date as soon as the shipment is booked. Early submission gives me time to review the information, address missing details, review any applicable bond requirements, and confirm whether the filing can be accepted.

Please also notify me promptly if your supplier, shipment details, or bill of lading information changes.

My goal is to help you keep your shipment compliant and moving. Providing complete information early is the best way to avoid last-minute problems and unnecessary costs.