ISF for ocean imports

The ISF, Importer Security Filing, is an important first step in the import process for any shipment arriving in the U.S. by vessel.

Doral Customs Brokers is a licensed customs broker, founded in 2012, and we handle ISF filings and imports at any U.S. port.

ISF timeline and penalties

For most ocean shipments, CBP requires the ISF at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto the ship at the foreign port. A late, wrong or missing ISF can lead to CBP penalties. Email us early so we can prepare it.

Our internal deadline: to give us time to review the data with you and your supplier, we ask for the complete ISF information at least 3 days before loading. This is our internal deadline, not a CBP rule.

  • ISF requirements apply only to ocean shipments; air shipments do not need an ISF.

ISF information

The ISF includes details about the seller, buyer, manufacturer, goods and shipment. Our ISF form page lists what to send us. Email us at imports@doralcustomsbrokers.com with any questions.

Instructions for importers

Many of our importers copy us on their email correspondence with their suppliers early in the shipment process. This way we can step in when necessary to request ISF data or to give Bill of Lading instructions. Clear Bill of Lading instructions to the shipper make the import process easier. In general, we give all our importers the following Bill of Lading instructions to pass on to the shipper:

  • No original BL, issue TELEX release or equivalent electronic Bill of Lading
  • Consignee: as per invoice
  • Notify Party: Doral Customs Brokers, 8805 NW 35th Lane, Doral, FL 33172, 786-224-0500

Make sure your shipper knows about the ISF

The ISF is the importer’s responsibility, so ask your shipper to send the ISF information early.

In-bond cargo

Cargo moving in-bond may also need an ISF. We’ll tell you which one applies.

How to request your ISF

  1. Send us your ISF informationEmail your contact information and the ISF information from your supplier to imports@doralcustomsbrokers.com. Our ISF worksheet page lists the information to include.
  2. Sign a power of attorneyA power of attorney (POA) is required for us to file the ISF with U.S. Customs.
  3. We prepare and transmit your ISFWe process the ISF information received from the importer and the shipper and prepare the data to be transmitted to CBP.
  4. You receive the CBP acceptanceOnce CBP accepts the filing, we forward the ISF acceptance response to the importer and the shipper.

Our goal is to be a responsive, supportive part of your logistics team, from the ISF filing through customs clearance. We frequently work with first-time importers who are filing their first ISF, and we provide detailed guidance and follow-up on the ISF requirements set by CBP.

Your responsibility as the importer

Importers have always been responsible for using reasonable care in their imports. We help you understand which information and documents are needed, and we prepare your ISF and customs entry with the information you provide. As the importer of record, you remain responsible for making sure that information is accurate and complete.

Need help with your ISF?

Contact us with your shipment details. We’re here to help and we look forward to meeting you.

Call 786-224-0500Write to us

Doral Customs Brokers is a licensed customs broker. This page is for information only and is not legal advice. Customs and other agency requirements can change; confirm the current requirements for your goods. Esta página en español.