In international shipping, ISF (Importer Security Filing) is an important compliance document. It is a detailed information of goods required by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for importers to enhance security and simplify the customs clearance process. Understanding the definition, purpose and filling requirements of ISF.

What Is ISF?

ISF stands for Importer Security Filing, also known as “10+2 declaration”.

“10”: refers to the 10 items of cargo and transaction information that importers need to submit, such as shipper information, consignee information, cargo description, etc.

“2”: refers to the two items of data that carriers need to submit, including container status information and ship’s scheduled voyage information.

ISF is a regulation in effect in the United States, applicable to goods imported into the United States by sea, designed to ensure cargo security and reduce the risk of terrorism and other potential threats.

What Is The Difference Between ISF 5 And ISF 10?

ISF 5 applies to non-US domestic goods, but enters Canada through the United States, and there is a standard form to submit. Failure to submit ISF 5 may incur inspection fees and storage fees.

On the other hand, ISF 10 applies to goods shipped to the United States. Importers must submit this form at least 24 hours before the goods are shipped. Failure to submit ISF 10 may result in a fine of at least $5,000.

What Information Is Required For ISF Form Submission

Submission time
ISF must be submitted to the US Customs 24 hours after the goods are loaded on board and before leaving the port of export.

Information to be submitted
Importers need to provide the following 10 pieces of information:

Name and address of the seller

Name and address of the buyer

Name and address of the shipper

Name and address of the consignee

Place of loading of containerized goods

Freight station information before loading

Six-digit HS code of the goods

Final destination of the goods

Specific voyage of the ship

Carrier number

In addition, the carrier needs to submit container status and voyage information.

Consequences Of Not Submitting An ISF Or Submitting It Incorrectly

Penalties: Importers who fail to submit an ISF on time or provide incorrect information may face fines of up to $5,000 per shipment.

Delays: Shipments may be detained or seized, extending customs clearance time.

Damaged reputation: Chronic violations may affect a company’s reputation and partnership with carriers.

Shipping From China To USA

Transportation Mode Selection
There are three main modes of shipping from China to the USA:

Sea freight: suitable for large quantities of goods, with lower costs but longer time, usually 25 to 40 days.

Air freight: suitable for small quantities, high-value or urgent goods, with a shipping time of 5 to 10 days and relatively high costs.

Express: suitable for small goods or samples, with a shipping time of 3 to 7 days, higher prices but fast service.

The Importance of ISF Submission
For goods shipped by sea, ISF is a mandatory requirement. Failure to submit ISF or incorrect information will result in cargo delays or fines. Therefore, working with a freight forwarder in advance or using professional logistics tools to ensure information accuracy is the key to successful transportation.

The shipping cost from China to the USA is affected by the following factors:

Mode of transportation: Sea freight is cheaper than air freight, but air freight is faster.

Cargo volume and weight: Larger cargo volume or weight usually increases costs.

Port or airport of destination: Different destinations will have different port fees and tax rates.
Duties and VAT: These costs are borne by the importer and are calculated based on the type and value of the goods.

Winsail Logistics Services

Winsail Logistics provides one-stop shipping services from China to the United States, including:

Door-to-door transportation

Documentation and ISF submission support

Duties and customs clearance services

Freight insurance

If you need an efficient logistics solution for shipping from China to the United States, please contact us and we will customize the service for you!

ISF is an important document that cannot be ignored in US import shipping. It is not only related to the safety and compliance of goods, but also directly affects the efficiency and cost of customs clearance. As an importer, ensuring accurate and timely submission of ISF is an important step in the success of international trade.

If you have any questions about filling out or submitting ISF, or need freight services from China to the United States, please consult Winsail Logistics, we will provide you with a comprehensive solution!