News
- 10+2 ISF (Importer Security Filing)
- 2/3/2009
10+2 ISF (Importer Security Filing)
There are new requirements for US Ocean Cargo Importers now.
The US Department of Homeland Security announced in early 2008 new information requirements on maritime cargo destined for the United States and officially this is in effect as of January 26th, 2009 with a 12 month-phase in period. During the 12 month phase in period, it is imperative for all importers to demonstrate a good faith effort to comply with the new ISF requirements. This requirement comes from the SAFE Port act of 2006 and requires 2 additional data sets to be supplied by the carrier or the “2” in 10+2 and 10 pieces of information referred to as the Importer Security Filing or ISF from the importer.
Importers can choose to have a service provider with a power of attorney and bond file the ISF on their behalf. All ISF filings are to be done electronically via Automated Manifest System(AMS) or the Automated Broker Interface(ABI).
The penalties for non compliance can be severe and once the informed compliance period officially ends ( the date is currently unknown ) the ISF Importer is bound to provide a complete, accurate and timely filing or risk liquidated damages in the amount of $5000.00 per violation.
There are a lot of unanswered questions still from the US Importing Community at large and a link has been provided below to the US Customs and Border Protection Website with the most frequently asked questions.
The key is to ensure you can answer the following questions:
1. How will your data be collected – can you start this at purchase order placement as the ISF must be submitted no later than 24 hours before the cargo is laden aboard a vessel destined for the United States.
2. Who will file the ISF?
3. How will data stay confidential?http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/cargo_security/carriers/security_filing/
Please contact your local North American Bellville Rodair Office should you have any questions or require additional information.