ISF, stands for Importer Security Filing, required by the United States Customs and Border Protection (CPB) for containerized cargo imports.
ISF information must be be filed with CPB 24 hours prior to vessel sailing from origin port to US.
Known as “10+2” document, ISF requires importers to provide 10 data elements to CBP and 2 other documents from the shipping carrier. Can skip to the detailed guidance of ISF Filing : Importer Security Filing 10+2
Interpretation
ISF filing is applicable to import containerized shipments to US only, it’s not required for shipments to other countries.
ISF is required for FCL and LCL ocean shipments. An Importer Security Filing is not required for bulk cargo , air cargo and courier parcel.
ISF must be filed timely, completely and accurately by importers.
