Sourcing glossary
ISF filing
Also known as: Importer Security Filing, 10+2, ISF 10+2
A US Customs and Border Protection requirement that the importer electronically submit ten data elements about ocean cargo no later than 24 hours before it is loaded on a US-bound vessel.
The "10" are filed by the importer (in practice usually by its customs broker or forwarder): seller, buyer, importer of record number, consignee number, manufacturer or supplier, ship-to party, country of origin, HTS code, container stuffing location and consolidator (these last two may follow later, but no later than 24 hours before arrival in the US). The "+2" are the vessel stow plan and container status messages, which the carrier files. ISF applies to sea freight only, not air.
Because the deadline is before loading in China, your supplier must give your broker the manufacturer and stuffing details early. CBP can assess liquidated damages of $5,000 per violation for late, inaccurate or incomplete filings (as of 2026). See shipping from China to Amazon FBA.
Related terms
Part of Tariffs & Compliance.