Understanding the ISF Process: Key to US Imports
At Juno we have deep experience handling cargo and navigating US Customs rules and regulations. One crucial part of bringing goods into the United States (US) is the Importer Security Filing, often called ISF or 10+2.
What Is an ISF?
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) mandates an ISF for all sea shipments to the US to verify cargo safety and assess import risks, providing necessary information on the cargo’s origin and US destination. Importers or their agents should provide all necessary data elements 72 hours prior to departure. This ensures data accuracy and allows us to meet CBP’s deadline which is 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto the vessel destined for the United States.
The 10+2 Rule
The name “10+2” comes from the data elements required: 10 from the importer and 2 from the steamship line. Here is a list of the 10:
Seller: Who is selling or supplying the goods? We need their name and address.
Buyer: Who is buying the goods? We need their name and address.
Manufacturer or Supplier: Who made the goods or is supplying them? We need their name and address.
Ship-to Party: Where the goods are being delivered after they clear Customs. We need their name and address.
Container Stuffing Location: Name and address where the goods were loaded into the shipping container. If there is more than one location, please provide details for all.
Consolidator or Stuffer: Name and address of the party who stuffed the container or arranged the consolidation or stuffing of the goods. If there is more than one party, please provide details for all.
Importer of Record/FTZ Applicant ID Number: The name and identification — such as an IRS number, EIN, SSN, or CAN — of the company responsible for the import and Customs duties.
Consignee Number: Name and official identification number of the company on whose account the merchandise is being shipped.
Country of Origin: The country where the goods were manufactured, produced, or grown. If more than one, please list each country next to the corresponding HTS number.
HTS Number: The specific Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States code that identifies the imported commodity to the 6-digit level.
Additionally, the steamship line/carrier contributes these last 2 data elements:
Vessel Stow Plan: Comprehensive vessel information, including the vessel name, operator, and voyage number.
Container Status Messages: Updates about the container's movement and location, such as arrival at the port of loading, vessel departure, and arrival at the US port.
Why Is ISF So Important?
CBP's ISF program is essential for US importers because it promotes national security, helps recognize potential risks, streamlines Customs processes, ensures regulatory compliance, and offers various operational and financial benefits within the global supply chain.
By staying informed about CBP's ISF program, importers and their agents or brokers can help ensure a smooth and compliant shipping process when sending goods to the United States. Remember that regulations and requirements may evolve, so ongoing vigilance and compliance are essential.