2024-12-26 09:26:01

Importer Security Filing (ISF)

What is an Importer Security Filing (ISF)?

An Importer Security Filing (ISF) is a mandatory submission to United States Customs and Border Protection (CPB), that the importers must complete before their cargo arrives in the U.S. Its purpose is to ensure that the incoming goods are safe and meet regulations. It was introduced in the U.S. recently and according to it, the goods must submit a few cargo information to the CBP, electronically. This rule is only applicable in the case of Cargo, which is arriving via Ocean Vessel and does not support another mode of transportation.

Importance of Importer Security Filing (ISF)

Firstly, it helps security by allowing U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to assist with risks associated with incoming shipments. It also Assist the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This proactive approach leads to faster customs clearance, as timely filling can reduce delays at the port. In Addition, complying with Importer Security Filing requirements can avoid penalties and fines on the (ISF) Importer for incomplete or wrong filing. With the Filing of ISF, the CBP may not restrict and provide permission to unload the cargo vessel and take merchandise. It also helps in contributing to having better records.

Who is responsible for Filing Importer Security?

The (ISF) Importer is responsible for the filing of the Importer Security Filing, with the 10 mandatory required information, according to the Code of Federal Regulations 19 CFR 149.2 (a). The ISF Importer is responsible for the smooth running and compliance of the requirements of CBP. It is the part that allows the goods in the cargo vessel to arrive at the port of the U.S.
The Carrier or the shipment company is to provide two pieces of extra information, called the (+2).

If the goods are being exported to the Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ), then the person or company who is assigned to handle the paperwork of customs and import will be responsible for the Filing of the ISF. Both the Imposter and the shipping company provide information regarding ISF.

What is needed for the Importer Security Filing?

Ten files and documentation from the importer and two more from the carrier are required in total to file an ISF form.

Information provided by the importer:

• The Credentials of the buyer or owner.

• The Credentials of the seller.

• The Credentials of the manufacturer.

• The Credentials of the staffer or consolidator.

• The Credentials of the ship-to.

• The position of container stuffing.

• The Credentials of consignee.

• The Credentials of the consolidator.
• The nation of origin.

• A harmonized tariff schedule with at least six digits.

Carrier data:

• Messages about container status.

• The plan for vessel stowage.

How much does Importer security filing cost?

The Importer Security Filing costs between $25 to $50.

For auto-filing the fee is $35, whereas the fee may vary from service quality, but usually the ISF bond can be combined with ISF cost and the total cost could be between $80 to $120.

There are two types of ISF Fee-

1. Standard Fees: Covers data entries and document preparation.

2. Additional Fees: Includes the late submission and the penalty charges.

Deadline for ISF Filing

The Importer Security Filing (ISF) is mandated to be submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) 24 hours before the loading of the Cargo on the vessel. The deadline of 24 hours is a very fine cut-off with very few exceptions, for example, In-Bond Shipment, Government or Military Cargo, Delays & Changes in the Shipping Schedule, and Immediate Exportation & Transportation & Exportation Shipments.

Fine and Penalty for the Importer Security Filing

CBP deals with the delay or incorrect ISF and it can lead to liquidated damages. Penalties and charges for failing to comply with the Importer Security Filing (ISF) include:

• ISF filing failure - $5,000/shipment

• ISF late filing - $5,000/shipment

• ISF incomplete filing- $5,000/shipment

• ISF failure to withdraw- $5,000/shipment

• ISF failure to ensure it matches the Bill of Landing- $5,000/shipment

Conclusion

Therefore, the Importer Security Filing (ISF) also known as “10+2”, is filed to cover the US Customs. The whole aim and objective of IFS is to inform the shipment information to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) via ISF importers. The Cargo ships are required to submit the CBP, the complete ISF 24 hours before the cargo is loaded in the vessel and headed for the U.S.