Customs has initiated an “Importer Security Filing and Additional Carrier Requirements” rule, also known as the 10+2 Initiative to require that importers provide ten data elements (see below) and the carrier provide two data elements; vessel stow plan and container status message before clearance in the U.S. The information is required before or immediately after (within 24 hours) the shipment’s departure via ocean freight from the port of exportation. 

Ten data elements are required from importer: 

  1. Manufacturer (or seller) name and address 
  2. Seller name and address 
  3. Buyer name and address 
  4. Ship-to name and address 
  5. Container stuffing location 
  6. Consolidator (stuffer) name/address 
  7. Importer identification number 
  8. Consignee identification number 
  9. Country of origin 
  10.  U.S. harmonized tariff number 

There are a number of implications for international exhibitors. Some of the information being requested is new. Even if exhibitors imported the same merchandise for the exhibition last year, new requirements are now in place. The 10+2 requirements make it extremely difficult to clear shipments that arrive past the shipping deadline dates unless the importer of record is notified in advance. Penalties will be assessed to importers that do not comply with the ISF (Importer Security Filing) or 10+2 regulations. 

First time exhibitors and those that have not established buyer networks in the U.S. are at a disadvantage because they have no official importer of record to designate unless their customs broker will act in this capacity (as Rogers Worldwide does). The importer is liable for all duties (secured by a surety bond) and compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements resulting from importation of the goods for the show. It is necessary for these companies to designate a U.S. representative or a licensed customs broker for this purpose. 

Rogers Worldwide, in its capacity as the importer, represents the interests of the exhibitor and takes responsibility for meeting all customs requirements.

Rogers Worldwide Customs Brokerage and International Freight Forwarding

1-702-272-1596, import@rerogers.com, www.rerogers.com