I5 ISF 5+2

The ISF 5+2, also known as Importer Security Filing 5+2, is a crucial component in the realm of U.S. import compliance, specifically designed to enhance maritime cargo security. This fee is associated with the filing requirement mandated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and involves the submission of specific data elements before a vessel's departure from a foreign port. The "5+2" refers to the five data elements related to the cargo—such as booking party, shipper, consignee, commodity HTSUS number, and country of origin—and two additional elements provided by the carrier, namely the vessel stow plan and container status messages.

The responsibility for ISF 5+2 falls primarily on the importer or their designated agent, such as a customs broker or freight forwarder, who must ensure timely and accurate submission to prevent potential penalties. The fee for this filing is typically charged by the service provider handling the submission, and it is generally paid by the importer as part of their broader compliance obligations.

This filing is specifically applicable to ocean shipments bound for the United States and must be completed at least 24 hours before the cargo is laden onto the vessel at the foreign port. The ISF 5+2 differs from the standard ISF 10+2 in its simplified data requirements but maintains the same critical purpose of providing CBP with essential shipment information for risk assessment.

In practice, it is crucial for importers to verify the accuracy of the data provided and ensure that their logistics partners are well-versed in the filing requirements to avoid delays or fines. Timeliness and precision in this filing process are vital to maintaining compliance and facilitating smooth entry of goods into the U.S. market.