So you’ve come across the name “ISF 10+2 Filing: Everything You Need to Know” and you’re probably wondering what it’s all about. Well, let me break it down for you. In this video by Anthony Persaud, he simplifies the process of importer security filing and makes it feel like a breeze. The ISF 10+2 filing is part of the safe port act and requires certain information to be submitted to the CBP. One important piece of information needed for the filing is the bill of lading number, which plays a crucial role in the overall security filing. But don’t worry, Persaud has got you covered with all the nitty-gritty details you need to know, including how the bonding requirements are determined and what type of ocean cargo is exempt from the filing. Plus, he spills the beans on the penalties for late or non-filing, so you’ll definitely want to tune in to this video to stay on the right side of the law.

ISF 10+2 Filing: Everything You Need to Know

What is ISF 10+2?

ISF 10+2 refers to the Importer Security Filing requirement that was implemented as part of the Safe Port Act. This filing requires importers to submit specific information to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at least 24 hours before goods are loaded onto a vessel bound for the United States. The information submitted through the ISF 10+2 filing includes details about the imported cargo, the parties involved in the shipment, and other important information that helps CBP assess the security risk of the shipment.

Importance of Bill of Lading Number

The Bill of Lading Number is a crucial component of the ISF 10+2 filing. It is a unique identifier assigned to each shipment and is required at the time of filing. The Bill of Lading Number helps CBP to accurately match the ISF filing with the corresponding shipment. This ensures that the information provided in the ISF is accurate and helps CBP identify any discrepancies or potential security threats.

Bonding Requirements for ISF

Importers who are required to file an ISF 10+2 are also subject to bonding requirements. The bond serves as a guarantee to CBP that the importer will comply with all applicable customs laws and regulations. The bond amount is determined by CBP based on various factors and is not directly linked to the value of the cargo. It is important for importers to understand their bonding requirements and ensure they have the appropriate bond in place to avoid any penalties or delays in the clearance process.

Liability for Standalone Single Transaction Bond

For standalone ISF filings, which are required for certain types of transactions, the bond amount is set at $10,000. This bond amount acts as a limit of liability for the importer. If the importer fails to comply with the ISF requirements or incurs any penalties, CBP can make a claim against the bond up to the bond amount. Importers should be aware of their liabilities and obligations when it comes to standalone ISF filings to avoid any potential financial repercussions.

Exemptions for Certain Types of Transactions

While most importers are required to file an ISF 10+2, there are exemptions for certain types of transactions. Household goods and personal effects, government and military diplomatic shipments, international mail, and informal shipments are examples of transactions that are exempt from bond requirements. These exemptions help streamline the import process for low-risk shipments and reduce the administrative burden on importers.

Exempt Ocean Cargo from ISF Filing

Certain types of ocean cargo are also exempt from ISF filing requirements. Bulk shipments, both dry and liquid, are exempt from the ISF filing. However, it is important to note that while bulk shipments are exempt from the vessel stow plan and Container Status Message (CSM) requirements, they still require the filing of an Importer Security Filing (ISF). On the other hand, Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) cargo, which is considered breakbulk, requires an International Carrier Bond (ICF) filing. Car neys, which are vehicles being transported by ship, are not exempted from the ISF filing requirements.

Information Required for ISF 10+2 Filing

When filing an ISF 10+2, importers are required to provide specific information to CBP. This information includes the importer of record, consignee, ship to party, manufacturer, country of origin, Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes, consolidator, and container stuffing location. It is essential for importers to ensure that all the required information is accurately provided to avoid any penalties or delays in the clearance process.

Penalties for Late or Non-Filing

Late or non-filing of the ISF 10+2 can result in penalties issued by U.S. Customs. These penalties can range up to $10,000 per violation. It is crucial for importers to understand the filing deadlines and ensure timely submission of the ISF to avoid any financial repercussions. Importers should also be aware of the potential consequences of non-compliance with ISF filing requirements and take necessary steps to comply with the regulations.

Importers’ Liability for Penalties

Importers are ultimately held liable for any penalties issued by U.S. Customs due to non-compliance with ISF filing requirements. It is the responsibility of the importer to ensure that the ISF is filed accurately and on time. Importers should be proactive in understanding their obligations, staying informed about the regulations, and working closely with their customs broker or freight forwarder to ensure compliance. By fulfilling their obligations, importers can avoid penalties and maintain a smooth import process.

ISF 10+2 Filing Made Easy

Explanation of ISF 10+2

ISF 10+2 is a critical requirement for importers to ensure the security and safety of the international supply chain. It was introduced as part of the Safe Port Act and aims to provide CBP with detailed information about imported goods before they arrive in the United States. The ISF filing helps CBP assess potential security risks associated with the imported cargo and take appropriate measures to mitigate those risks.

Relationship with the Safe Port Act

The ISF 10+2 filing requirement is mandated under the Safe Port Act, which was enacted by the U.S. Congress in 2006. The Safe Port Act focuses on enhancing the security of U.S. ports and aims to prevent terrorist attacks and illegal activities. The ISF filing requirement is one of the measures implemented to achieve the objectives of the Safe Port Act and ensure the safety of the supply chain.

Importance of Bill of Lading Number

Requirement for Bill of Lading Number

The Bill of Lading Number is a vital piece of information required for the ISF 10+2 filing. It is a unique identifier assigned to each shipment and helps CBP accurately match the ISF filing with the corresponding cargo. The Bill of Lading Number is provided by the carrier and is a crucial part of the documentation for international shipments. Importers must ensure they have access to the correct Bill of Lading Number at the time of filing to avoid any discrepancies in the ISF.

Integration with Security Filing

The Bill of Lading Number is integrated into the ISF filing process to enhance the security of the supply chain. By including this identifier in the ISF, CBP can verify the accuracy of the filing information and track the movement of the cargo from its origin to the U.S. port of arrival. This integration ensures that the filing information corresponds with the actual shipment and enables CBP to identify any potential security threats or discrepancies.

Bonding Requirements for ISF

Determining Bond Amount

The bond amount for ISF filings is determined by CBP based on various factors. It is not directly linked to the value of the cargo being imported. CBP takes into account the importer’s compliance history, the nature of the goods being imported, and other relevant factors to determine the appropriate bond amount. Importers should work closely with their customs broker or surety provider to understand their bonding requirements and ensure they have the necessary bond in place.

No Relation to Cargo Value

It is important to note that the bond amount for ISF filings is not based on the value of the cargo being imported. Instead, it serves as a guarantee to CBP that the importer will comply with all applicable customs laws and regulations. The bond helps protect the revenue of the United States and ensures that importers fulfill their obligations. Importers should be aware of this distinction and not assume that the bond amount is determined based on the value of their shipment.

Liability for Standalone Single Transaction Bond

Bond Amount for Standalone ISF

For standalone ISF filings, which are required for specific types of transactions, the bond amount is set at $10,000. This bond amount acts as a limit of liability for the importer. If the importer fails to comply with the ISF requirements or incurs any penalties, CBP can make a claim against the bond up to the bond amount. Importers should carefully consider their liabilities and obligations when it comes to standalone ISF filings and ensure they have the appropriate bond in place.

Waived Bond Requirements

Certain types of transactions are exempt from the bond requirements for standalone ISF filings. These exemptions are designed to streamline the import process for low-risk shipments and reduce administrative burdens on importers. Household goods and personal effects, government and military diplomatic shipments, international mail, and informal shipments are examples of transactions for which the bond requirements have been waived. Importers should consult with their customs broker or surety provider to determine if their specific transaction qualifies for this exemption.

Examples of Waived Transactions

Household goods and personal effects shipments, which involve the importation of personal belongings and household items for personal use, are exempt from the bond requirements for standalone ISF filings. Similarly, government and military diplomatic shipments, which are shipments associated with government agencies or diplomatic missions, are also exempt from bond requirements. International mail and informal shipments, which involve small value or low-risk goods, are additional examples of transactions for which the bond requirements have been waived.

Exemptions for Certain Types of Transactions

Transactions Exempt from Bond Requirements

In addition to the exemptions for certain types of transactions for standalone ISF filings, there are also exemptions for bond requirements in general. For example, low-value shipments that are valued at $800 or less are exempt from posting a bond. Furthermore, certain types of carriers, such as non-vessel operating common carriers (NVOCCs), are exempt from the bond requirement if they meet specific criteria. Importers should consult with their customs broker or surety provider to determine if their specific transaction qualifies for any exemptions.

Example Transactions Exempt from ISF

Certain types of transactions are exempt from the ISF filing requirement altogether. For example, goods transported by air or truck are exempt from ISF filing, as the focus of the ISF requirement is on goods transported by vessel. Additionally, goods being transported under an immediate exportation or transportation and exportation entry are also exempt from ISF filing. Importers should understand the specific requirements and exemptions that apply to their shipment to ensure compliance with customs regulations.

Exempt Ocean Cargo from ISF Filing

Exemption for Bulk Shipments

Both dry and liquid cargo transported in bulk shipments are exempt from the ISF filing requirement. Bulk shipments refer to goods that are not packaged or containerized individually but are rather loaded directly onto the vessel. This exemption simplifies the import process for bulk shipments as they are not subject to the vessel stow plan and CSM requirements. However, importers should still ensure compliance with other applicable regulations and documentation requirements for bulk shipments.

Requirement for RORO Cargo

Roll-On/Roll-Off (RORO) cargo, which includes vehicles and other wheeled cargo being transported by vessel, is considered breakbulk cargo. Breakbulk cargo refers to goods that are loaded individually onto the vessel and not in containers. RORO cargo requires an International Carrier Bond (ICF) filing, in addition to other applicable documentation requirements. It is important for importers of RORO cargo to ensure compliance with the specific regulations and filing requirements for this type of cargo.

Exclusion of Car Neighs

Car neys, which are vehicles being transported by ship, are not exempt from the ISF filing requirements. Car neys are subject to the same ISF filing requirements as other types of cargo being transported by vessel. Importers of car neys should ensure they have accurate and complete information about their shipment and file the ISF in a timely manner to avoid any penalties or delays in the clearance process.

Information Required for ISF 10+2 Filing

Importers’ Information

The ISF 10+2 filing requires importers to provide their information, including the importer of record, which is the party responsible for the goods at the time of importation. Importers must accurately provide their company name, address, and other contact information to ensure successful filing and communication with CBP.

Parties Involved

In addition to importers’ information, the ISF 10+2 filing also requires information about other parties involved in the shipment. This includes the consignee, who is the party receiving the shipment in the United States, and the ship to party, who is the location where the goods are being delivered. Importers must provide accurate and complete information about these parties to ensure smooth processing of the ISF.

Origin Country and HTS Codes

The ISF 10+2 filing also requires importers to provide the country of origin of the goods. It is essential for importers to accurately determine the country of origin of the goods and provide this information in the ISF. Additionally, importers must provide the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes for the goods being imported. The HTS codes help classify the goods and determine the applicable duties, taxes, and regulations. Importers should work closely with their customs broker or trade consultant to ensure accurate and compliant reporting of the origin country and HTS codes.

Container Stuffing Location

Another important piece of information required for the ISF 10+2 filing is the container stuffing location. This refers to the facility or location where the goods are loaded into the container for shipment. Importers must provide accurate information about the container stuffing location to enable CBP to assess the security risk associated with the shipment. Importers should coordinate with their logistics providers or shipping agents to ensure the accurate reporting of this information.

Penalties for Late or Non-Filing

US Customs Penalties

Late or non-filing of the ISF 10+2 can result in penalties issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. CBP has the authority to issue penalties of up to $10,000 per violation. These penalties can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the non-compliance, such as the extent of the violation, the importer’s compliance history, and the potential security risk. Importers should be aware of the filing deadlines and ensure timely submission of the ISF to avoid any penalties.

Maximum Penalty Amount

The maximum penalty amount for late or non-filing of the ISF 10+2 is set at $10,000 per violation. CBP has the authority to assess penalties based on the severity and frequency of the non-compliance. Importers should take the ISF filing requirements seriously and ensure strict compliance to avoid any financial repercussions. It is important to note that penalties can be assessed for each individual violation, so importers should strive to comply with the filing requirements for each shipment.

Importers’ Liability for Penalties

Importer as the Liable Party

Importers are ultimately held liable for any penalties issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection due to non-compliance with the ISF 10+2 filing requirements. The importer of record, as the party responsible for the goods at the time of importation, bears the primary responsibility for ensuring compliance with customs regulations. Importers should take proactive measures to understand their compliance obligations, work closely with their customs broker or freight forwarder, and maintain accurate and complete records to mitigate the risk of penalties.

Responsibility for ISF Penalties

As the liable party, importers are responsible for any penalties issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection for non-compliance with the ISF 10+2 filing requirements. Importers should be aware of the potential financial consequences of non-compliance and take necessary actions to fulfill their obligations. Working closely with experienced customs professionals, maintaining accurate records, and staying informed about the regulations can help importers avoid penalties and maintain a smooth import process.