Importing goods in any country must be safe, which is why certain measures are developed at the legislative level. The set of actions includes monitoring compliance with rules, regulations, and standards. Over time and due to changing circumstances, some of these measures are updated, so importers and carriers should stay informed. Dragon Logistics specialists provide an overview of the latest changes in ISF and ACI filing.
Importer Safety: Latest Changes
At the request of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), carriers of cargo shipments by sea must provide a range of cargo data. This is the so-called Importer Security Filing (ISF), also known as “10+2.” It must be submitted at least 24 hours before the vessel is loaded with goods. Why “10+2”? Because 10 data elements are submitted by the importer and 2 elements by the carrier.
Data required from the importer:
- commercial invoice;
- buyer information;
- importer number;
- consignee number;
- country of origin (certificate);
- seller information;
- consignee address;
- customs bond;
- HTS codes;
- HTSUS number.
Data required from the carrier:
- container loading location;
- consolidator information.
The changes affect the previous CBP strategy known as the “Three Warning Policy.” Now, local port authorities are allowed to make decisions independently regarding importer filings that do not meet requirements.
Dragon Logistics specialists warn: for filings that do not meet the requirements, CBP may delay shipments or impose fines. Therefore, submit the declaration on time to allow for correction of possible errors and carefully check all data. It is better to involve a broker experienced in ISF filings.
Key Changes in ACI Filing
Changes also affect the Advance Cargo Information (ACI) systems for maritime and air shipments. Rules have been updated in the EU, UAE, USA, Canada, and Australia. In some cases, requirements for exporters and importers have become stricter. Some countries also require cargo information before loading onto an aircraft, known as PLACI, which focuses on assessing potential risks.
Main changes:
- EU: New pre-arrival customs security program, data submitted via ENS (Entry Summary Declaration);
- UAE: Introducing new cargo manifests for both air and sea shipments, coordinating with Maersk (integrated logistics company), and developing new INTTRA functions (digital network providing shipping information);
- Canada, USA, Australia: Stricter requirements for AWB air waybills. To avoid rejection, the carrier must provide more details in accordance with FIDI standards (International Federation of Freight Forwarders);
- Egypt: Requires the importer’s VAT number, exporter registration data, and ACID (unique cargo identification number).
Dragon Logistics specialists note a trend toward harmonizing business processes and improving ACI and PLACI implementation standards. Overall, both systems are primarily aimed at safety and risk assessment during transportation. Providing customs authorities with detailed cargo information enhances border security and facilitates free trade. Pre-screening accelerates customs clearance. Additionally, the system ensures transparency throughout the supply chain, with all stakeholders having real-time access to information.