In this in-depth guide, we break down exactly what ISF entails, why it's essential, and how our team ensures your compliance throughout the import process.
When it comes to importing goods into the United States via ocean freight, few regulations are as critical as the Importer Security Filing (ISF). Also known as "10+2," ISF is a mandatory requirement by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) designed to improve cargo visibility and national security.
At Daguer Logistics, we ensure that our clients remain fully compliant with all ISF requirements while minimizing the risk of delays, penalties, or cargo seizures. In this in-depth guide, we break down exactly what ISF entails, why it's essential, and how our team ensures your compliance throughout the import process.
Importer Security Filing (ISF), commonly referred to as "10+2," is a U.S. CBP requirement for all ocean freight imports arriving into the United States. The rule mandates that importers submit specific shipment details at least 24 hours before the vessel departs for the U.S.
Introduced in 2009, ISF was designed to enhance maritime cargo security and provide CBP with advance data to identify potential risks before the cargo arrives.
The goal of the ISF program is simple: increase U.S. border security and prevent illegal cargo or persons from entering the country. By requiring detailed, advance information about incoming shipments, CBP gains better visibility into cargo origins, contents, and handlers, allowing them to:
· Flag high-risk shipments
· Identify smuggling or trafficking threats
· Ensure compliance with U.S. trade laws
· Protect ports and supply chain networks
Failure to comply can result in severe penalties, including delays, fines, and even cargo seizures.
The term "10+2" refers to the specific pieces of data that must be submitted:
1. Seller (owner) name and address
2. Buyer (consignee) name and address
3. Importer of record number (or FTZ applicant ID)
4. Consignee number(s)
5. Manufacturer (supplier) name and address
6. Ship-to party name and address
7. Country of origin of the goods
8. Commodity Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) number
9. Container stuffing location
10. Consolidator (stuffer) name and address
1. Vessel stow plan
2. Container status messages
ISF must be filed at least 24 hours before the vessel departs for the United States. The data is electronically submitted to CBP via the Automated Broker Interface (ABI) or Automated Manifest System (AMS).
Daguer Logistics works directly with licensed customs brokers and automated systems to file ISF data accurately and on time.
Here is what you need to prepare for a proper ISF submission:
· Supplier or manufacturer name & address
· Owner or seller name & address
· Ship-to party name & address
· Container stuffing location
· Consolidator name & address
· Importer of record or FTZ number
· Consignee number(s)
· Country of origin
· Commodity HTSUS code
· House Bill of Lading (if applicable)
· Master Bill of Lading (SCAC code included)
· Vessel stow plan
· Container tracking status (message updates)
Daguer Logistics helps collect and organize this data, ensuring your ISF is submitted completely and correctly.
Failure to submit or properly complete your ISF can result in harsh penalties:
· Failure to file ISF: $5,000
· Late ISF filing: $5,000
· Incomplete filing: $5,000
· Failure to withdraw ISF: $5,000
· Mismatch with Bill of Lading: $5,000
Repeat violations can result in cargo holds, customs inspections, additional fines, and in some cases, seizure or destruction of goods.
Here are some of the most frequent mistakes that can cost importers valuable time and money:
· Incorrect Bill of Lading Numbers
· Late Submission (after vessel departure)
· Misspelled addresses
· Incorrect or missing HTS codes
· Wrong consolidator or stuffing location info
· Failure to update or amend incorrect data
Daguer Logistics uses real-time filing systems and experienced customs brokers to ensure accuracy and prevent avoidable delays.
· A missed ISF deadline can lead to container holds, demurrage charges, and missed delivery windows.
Reduce Compliance Risk
· ISF is non-negotiable. Incorrect filing may result in civil penalties that affect your bottom line.
Improve Shipment Predictability
· ISF compliance ensures your containers are cleared faster at U.S. ports, reducing transit times.
As a leading 3PL and ecommerce fulfillment provider with extensive global reach, Daguer Logistics offers:
· End-to-end import coordination
· ISF data validation and document preparation
· Integration with licensed customs brokers
· Real-time filing and status tracking
· Alerts for missing or incorrect data
· LCL and FCL support from ports of origin
A U.S.-based electronics brand uses Daguer Logistics to import 2 FCL containers of tablets. Our team collects supplier documents, verifies the HTS codes, and ensures all 10+2 data points are submitted to CBP 72 hours before vessel departure.
For an LCL shipment of garments, Daguer coordinates with the consolidator and warehouse staff in Mumbai to collect the stuffing location and consolidator data, avoiding last-minute delays.
ISF is a critical component of your international shipping strategy. Getting it wrong can cost thousands in penalties and disrupt your entire supply chain. Getting it right means faster customs clearance, fewer inspections, and better control of your cargo.
With Daguer Logistics, you have an expert partner ensuring your ISF is filed correctly, on time, and in full compliance with CBP regulations. We manage the complexities so you can focus on growing your business.
Ready to streamline your imports and avoid costly ISF mistakes? Contact Daguer Logistics today.
ISF helps U.S. Customs identify high-risk cargo and ensure secure and efficient maritime trade.
The importer of record or their authorized agent (such as Daguer Logistics) is responsible for filing the ISF.
CBP may issue fines up to $5,000 and delay or detain the cargo.
No. ISF applies only to ocean shipments entering the United States.
Yes, amendments are allowed, but they must be submitted before vessel arrival to avoid penalties.
We manage data collection, validation, and timely submission on your behalf, ensuring full compliance.
