On January 26 2009, The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border protection (USCBP) implemented a new regulation known as the “Importer Security Filing (ISF) and Additional Carrier Requirements” (commonly referred to as the 10+2 Rule). The main purpose of the regulation is to improve knowledge about the content, origin, and final destination of cargo entering the United States and to identify potential terrorist threats prior to departure from a foreign port by ocean vessel.  

The compliance (enforcement) date for this rule was on January 26, 2010, therefore it is incumbent upon all importers or their appointed agent (e.g., licensed Customs broker) to be in compliance by ensuring that the Importer Security Filing (ISF) is done and submitted electronically to USCBP within the specified time frame. Failure to comply may lead to penalties being issued by USCBP.

There are eight pieces of data that must be submitted to CBP 24 hours prior to cargo being loaded onto the vessel at the origin port. These data elements are: Importer of Record, Consignee Number(s), Seller, Buyer, Ship to Party, Manufacturer (or supplier) Country of Origin and Commodity Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) number. Two data elements must be submitted 24 hrs prior to ship’s arrival at a U.S. Port. These are: Container stuffing location and Consolidator.

Below is a link that will provide you with additional information about the outreach events and an extensive FAQ section about the 10+2 program. http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/cargo_security/carriers/security_filing/

If you have specific questions, please forward and direct inquiries to: Security_Filing_General@cbp.dhs.gov