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Glossary · Customs & duties
What is ISF (Importer Security Filing (10+2))?
Advance cargo data the importer must send to US Customs for ocean shipments, generally at least 24 hours before goods are loaded on the US-bound ship.
The Importer Security Filing, known as 10+2, applies to cargo arriving in the US by ocean vessel. The importer or its agent submits 10 data elements, including the seller, buyer, manufacturer, ship-to party, country of origin, HTS number, container stuffing location and consolidator. The carrier adds two more: the vessel stow plan and container status messages.
Most elements are due no later than 24 hours before the cargo is loaded at the foreign port onto the vessel bound for the US. CBP can assess liquidated damages for late, inaccurate or missing filings, and cargo can be held for inspection.
Because the deadline falls before the ship leaves China, the importer needs supplier and factory details early. A forwarder or customs broker usually files the ISF, and it must match the right bill of lading number.
Sources: CBP: Importer Security Filing FAQ . Checked October 2026.
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