The ISF Filing Deadline is 24 hours before cargo is loaded onto a ship that is bound for the U.S. This deadline is mandated and enforced by Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Failure to meet the deadline can result in financial penalties of $5,000 per infraction, delayed cargo, and additional inspections.
Need help with the ISF Filing? Our Licensed Customs Brokers can submit the ISF for you and help you avoid any penalties or delays. Contact our team today at (855) 912-0406 to get the help you need.
When Should an ISF Be Filed?
The ISF 24 hour rule is one of the most important requirements to know about the importer security filing process. An ISF is required to be filed no later than 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto a ship with a destination of the United States or a foreign trade zone (FTZ).
The rule specifically applies to the first 8 elements of an ISF:
- Seller
- Buyer
- Importer of record number or FTZ applicant identification number
- Consignee number(s)
- Manufacturer (or supplier)
- Ship to party
- Country of origin
- Commodity HTS Code
The other two pieces of information – the container stuffing location and the consolidator – may be submitted later, but no less than 24 hours prior to the ship’s arrival at a U.S. port.
With all that being said, an importer security filing and all of its data elements should be submitted as soon as possible. Submitting the ISF earlier will allow the filer additional time to correct any mistakes and revise the filing if needed.
ISF Late Filing Penalty: What Happens if ISF is Filed Late?
If you fail to file your ISF, or you simply miss the ISF filing deadline, there are several consequences.
First, if you failed to file the ISF or missed the deadline, the port you arrived at will file a case with the CBP. The CBP will then proceed to file claims for the violations. They can assess damages of $5,000 per infraction, up to $10,000.
These infractions can include:
- Failure to file the ISF
- Late filing
- Incomplete filing
- Failure to withdraw the ISF
- Failure to ensure ISF matches the Bill of Lading
In some cases, CBP may hold your cargo until the proper information has been received and reviewed. The shipment may also be subject to additional inspections.
Need to learn more about how to submit an ISF correctly? Check out our article!
Submit Your ISF Filing on Time with USA Customs Clearance
Don’t wait until your ISF filing deadline. Get the help you need from the Licensed Customs Brokers at USA Customs Clearance.
Our staff can submit the ISF on your behalf, and ensure that it’s filled out accurately and on-time. Ready to get started? Give us a call at (855) 912-0406 or fill out our customs brokerage to get started.