
For ocean shipments entering the U.S.
ISF Filing Services (10+2)
Avoid penalties, stay compliant and keep your freight moving. IEL prepares, reviews and files your Importer Security Filing before your cargo loads.
Overview
What is an ISF?
The Importer Security Filing is a U.S. Customs requirement for ocean cargo entering the United States. Importers must provide shipment information before cargo arrives so Customs and Border Protection can screen it.
IEL simplifies the filing and makes sure the required information is submitted accurately and on time.

Improper filing can result in
- Customs penalties
- Shipment delays
- Cargo holds
- Increased examinations
- Additional processing costs
Services
Complete filing support
ISF preparation
We review your shipment information and prepare the filing details.
ISF submission
Timely electronic filing with the appropriate authorities.
Documentation review
Verification of shipment documents and filing information.
Compliance assistance
Guidance to reduce filing errors and avoid penalties.
Shipment monitoring
Coordination with you and your transportation providers when needed.
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Customs support
Integrated support from our customs brokerage team.
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Who we work with
- Importers of ocean freight
- First-time importers
- Manufacturers
- Distributors
- Retailers
How it works
Simple 4-step process
Complete the ISF request form
Importer, supplier and shipment details.
Send your documents
Commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading if available.
IEL reviews and files
We check the information and file the ISF.
Receive confirmation
You get confirmation once the filing is accepted.
Be ready
Information required
Importer
- Company name
- Importer number / EIN
- Contact name, email and phone
Supplier
- Supplier name
- Supplier address
- Country of origin
Shipment
- Vessel name and voyage number
- Container and booking number
- Port of loading and port of arrival
- Estimated arrival date
Documents
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of lading, if available
Online request
Submit your ISF filing request
Send it at least 72 hours before the vessel loads so there is time to correct any errors before the deadline.
Thank you. We received your request.
Our team will review it and contact you within one business day. If it is urgent, call 619-576-3660.
This is a preview: nothing was sent. On the live site this request goes to the IEL team.
What is an ISF filing?
An Importer Security Filing is a Customs requirement for ocean shipments entering the United States.
When must an ISF be filed?
ISF information must generally be submitted before cargo is loaded onto the vessel bound for the United States.
What happens if I do not file?
Improper filing can result in penalties, delays, examinations and shipment holds.
Can IEL file my ISF?
Yes. IEL provides complete ISF filing services and compliance support.
Do I need to be an existing customer?
No. ISF filing can be requested on its own.
Can ISF services be combined with customs brokerage?
Yes. ISF filing integrates directly with IEL customs brokerage.
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