Importer Security Filing (ISF / 10+2)
The Importer Security Filing (ISF), commonly called “10+2,” is a US Customs and Border Protection requirement for ocean (sea) imports into the United States. The importer (or its agent) must electronically transmit ten data elements about the shipment to CBP at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto the vessel at the foreign port, and the carrier provides two additional data elements (hence “10+2”).
The ISF data — covering parties, goods, origin, HS numbers, and container stuffing/consolidation details — lets CBP perform advance security risk assessment before cargo is even loaded. Late, inaccurate or missing ISF filings can incur significant penalties (and cargo holds), so timely, accurate filing is essential for ocean shipments to the US. ISF applies only to ocean cargo (not air), and is filed through ACE. For importers and forwarders shipping to the US by sea, the ISF is a critical, deadline-driven compliance step that must be built into the booking and documentation process. It is a key part of US import security and clearance for ocean freight.
ISF is a hard, deadline-driven rule for US ocean imports — ten data elements filed 24 hours before loading at origin, or face heavy penalties and cargo holds. It must be built into the booking process, making it a critical compliance step for anyone shipping to the US by sea and a defining feature of US import security.
Why is ISF called "10+2"?
The importer files ten data elements and the carrier provides two more, for advance security screening of US-bound ocean cargo.
When must the ISF be filed?
At least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto the vessel at the foreign port; late or inaccurate filings incur penalties.