ISF Filing For Hazmat Cargo: Template For Customs Brokers (Safety Declaration Format)

?Are you preparing to file an ISF for hazardous materials and need a clear, reusable safety declaration template you can send to shippers, carriers, and importers?

ISF Filing For Hazmat Cargo: Template For Customs Brokers (Safety Declaration Format)

This article gives you a complete, practical guide to Importer Security Filing (ISF) for hazardous materials moving by ocean to the United States. You’ll get an explained, start-to-finish process, a fillable safety declaration template you can use as a customs broker, compliance tips, common edge cases, and troubleshooting advice. The goal is to make your ISF submissions accurate, defensible, and compatible with hazmat handling requirements so you reduce delays, fines, and safety risks.

What ISF is and why hazmat makes it different

You probably already know that ISF (Importer Security Filing or “10+2”) is a U.S. CBP requirement to provide advance shipment information for ocean cargo. When cargo involves hazardous materials, you must manage two overlapping responsibilities: regulatory safety declarations under IMDG/IMO and CBP’s trade security requirements. That means you must capture both the IMDG data needed by carriers and terminals and the ISF data required by CBP—accurately and on time.

Key differences when hazmat is involved:

• Hazmat requires additional technical fields (UN number, proper shipping name, class/division, packing group, flash point, net quantity per package).
• Carriers demand dangerous goods declarations before allowing stowage or loading.
• Errors increase safety risk at terminal/ship level and increase your exposure to penalties and container holds.

Who is responsible for what

Understanding roles reduces finger-pointing later. In second person, you need clarity on responsibilities:

• You (customs broker or filing agent): Often file the ISF on behalf of the importer or the importer’s agent. You must collect accurate ISF data and hazmat declarations and submit ISF at least 24 hours before vessel departure from the foreign port of loading.
• Importer of Record (IOR): Legally responsible for ISF accuracy. You should confirm their details and ensure they authorize you to file.
• Shipper/Exporter/Manufacturer: Provide technical hazmat data and packing details. You must verify those inputs.
• Carrier (ocean carrier or NVOCC): Files the carrier portion (the +2) and enforces dangerous goods acceptance processes. They will refuse to load containers without accepted DG declarations.
• Terminal/Stevedore: Enforces stowage and segregation rules based on DG information and vessel stow plans.

ISF timeline and key deadlines

You need to meet strict timing. Here’s the typical timeline you must follow:

• Pre-shipment phase: Collect hazmat declaration and ISF data from shipper and importer immediately after booking.
• ISF submission: Must be filed at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto the vessel at the foreign port (for direct vessel sailings to the U.S.).
• Amendments: File any necessary corrections as soon as you learn of them; some amendments may be accepted, but late or missing updates increase penalty risk.
• Arrival and inspection: CBP may target containers for inspection; you should be ready to provide supporting documents immediately.

The ISF 10+2 data elements (high-level)

You must include the required ISF fields and ensure hazmat-specific attributes are available for the carrier/terminal. The ISF data typically includes ten importer-supplied elements plus two carrier-supplied elements. For your operational checklist:

Importer-supplied (10):

• Seller (name/address)
• Buyer (name/address)
• Importer of Record number/FTZ applicant (IRS, EORI, or other tax ID)
• Consignee (name/address)
• Manufacturer (or supplier) name and address
• Ship-to party (if different)
• Country of origin
• Commodity HTSUS code (6-10 digit)
• Container stuffing location (where container was packed)
• Consolidator (stuffer) name and address

Carrier-supplied (2):

• Vessel stow plan (carrier-submitted)
• Container status messages (carrier-submitted)

Note: Systems and carriers sometimes need additional transactional identifiers (booking, master/house bill numbers), which you should capture.

Why you need an integrated hazmat safety declaration

If you keep ISF and hazmat declarations separate without mapping between them, inconsistencies often appear (e.g., different commodity descriptions or weight). You should integrate the two streams so that:

• UN number, proper shipping name, packing group, and net quantity map to container/commodity lines that will be stuffed and reflected in ISF.
• HTSUS classification aligns with the technical hazard description to avoid commodity-related mismatches.
• Carrier acceptance is not delayed because the DG declaration is incomplete or contradicts ISF details.

Safety declaration template for customs brokers (fillable)

Below is a practical safety declaration format you can send to shippers, manufacturers, or consignors. You should require a completed and signed version before issuing an ISF. Use your company letterhead or portal, but keep these fields mandatory.

• Shipment identification

  • House Bill or Booking Number:
  • Master Bill of Lading Number (if available):
  • ISF Filing Reference (if existing):

• Parties involved

  • Shipper/Exporter name and full address:
  • Consignee name and full address:
  • Importer of Record (IOR) name and tax ID:
  • Notify/Ship-to party name and full address:

• Transport and routing

  • Vessel name:
  • Voyage number:
  • Port of loading (POL):
  • Port of discharge (POD)/U.S. port:
  • Final U.S. destination (city/ZIP):

• Container and packing details

  • Container number(s) and seal number(s):
  • Type of shipment: FCL / LCL / Breakbulk / RoRo:
  • Number of packages and type of package (e.g., drum, box, pallet):
  • Gross weight (kg) and net weight (kg):
  • Dimensions (if required):

• Hazardous material technical details (repeat per hazardous UN item)

  • UN Number:
  • Proper shipping name (exact IMDG text):
  • Hazard class/division:
  • Subsidiary risks (if any):
  • Packing group (I, II, III):
  • Net quantity per package (kg or L):
  • Number of packages containing this UN item:
  • Total net quantity for this UN item:
  • Type of packaging (e.g., steel drum, Fiberboard box with inner liner):
  • Limited quantity indicator (Yes/No) and if Yes, indicate LP (Limited Quantity) quantity:
  • ORM-D or special consumer commodity indicator (if applicable; note ORM-D is obsolete for many modes):
  • Marine pollutant (Yes/No) and if Yes, indicate proper marking:
  • Flash point (°C) and test method:
  • Emergency response code (EMS) or MFAG (if available):

• Additional technical codes

  • Packing instruction reference (IMDG packing instruction number):
  • Special provisions (IMDG code references):
  • Temperature control needed (Yes/No, specify range):

• Emergency contact

  • Emergency contact name:
  • 24-hour telephone number (include country code):
  • Email (optional):

• Declaration and signature

  • Declaration statement: “I declare that the contents of this consignment are fully and accurately described above by the proper shipping name(s), are classified, packaged, marked, and labeled/placarded, and are in all respects in proper condition for transport according to applicable international and national governmental regulations.”
  • Name of declarant:
  • Title:
  • Company:
  • Place and date:
  • Signature (electronic signature acceptable where valid):

Use this template as a PDF form or web form. Require shipper/producer signature and verify that phone and emergency contact are working numbers.

Example: A filled hazardous item segment (sample)

Here’s a sample filled section you can paste into outgoing emails or forms to show exactly what you expect:

• UN Number: UN1203
• Proper shipping name: GASOLINE
• Hazard class/division: 3
• Subsidiary risks: None
• Packing group: II
• Net quantity per package: 20 L
• Number of packages containing this UN item: 12
• Total net quantity for this UN item: 240 L
• Type of packaging: Plastic jerrican in cardboard outer box
• Limited quantity indicator: No
• Marine pollutant: No
• Flash point: -40°C (Tag closed cup)
• Emergency contact: +44-20-1234-5678 (24-hour response)
• Packing instruction (IMDG): P001
• Special provisions: None

You’ll ask that the shipper provides that level of granularity for each hazardous UN item.

How to map safety declaration data into ISF fields

You must ensure the safety declaration’s information is logically linked to the ISF fields. Here’s how you should map them:

• ISF commodity description: Use the commercial description but append a reference to hazardous contents when applicable (e.g., “Paint; contains flammable liquids, UN1263”).
• ISF HTSUS: Use the HTS code that best matches the commodity—separate from UN classification but consistent with product description.
• ISF country of origin: From manufacturer data.
• ISF manufacturer name: Match to the safety declaration’s manufacturer/supplier.
• Container stuffing location: Where the container was packed; critical for CBP checks.
• Additional (not ISF mandated but recommended): Include UN numbers and the proper shipping names in a supplementary field or in cargo description lines that carriers review.

You should create a mapping sheet in your TMS or filing software so that when a safety declaration is uploaded, the ISF fields are pre-populated and validated.

Common ISF errors and how to avoid them

You’ll often see the same mistakes; fix these to reduce enforcement risk and delays:

• Error: Incomplete or missing UN number or improper shipping name.

  • Fix: Require completed safety declaration for every hazmat line before filing.

• Error: Mismatch between ISF commodity description and DG declaration.

  • Fix: Use controlled dictionaries and require reconciliation before submission.

• Error: Late ISF filing or last-minute booking changes.

  • Fix: Build internal cutoffs to ensure ISF is filed within your workflow no later than 24 hours before loading; use conditional workflows for changes.

• Error: Incorrect container number or seal mismatch.

  • Fix: Implement verification steps at stuffing and pre-carriage.

• Error: HTSUS misclassification leading to CBP rejections.

  • Fix: Use experienced classification resources and document reasoning.

• Error: Failure to include emergency contact or nonworking number.

  • Fix: Verify phone numbers and list multiple points of contact.

Edge cases and how you should handle them

You will encounter complex scenarios. Prepare standard operating procedures for these:

• Transshipment in foreign port (cargo is reloaded onto a different vessel): You must ensure ISF covers the initial vessel loading and that the carrier updates stow plans appropriately. Confirm whether a new ISF is required based on routing changes.

• Split or consolidated shipments in an LCL container: Each house bill’s hazmat lines must be reconciled. If multiple shippers contribute dangerous goods to one container, require confirmatory DG declarations from each shipper and consolidate into a container-level DG summary.

• Dangerous goods declared after stuffing: This is high risk. If a hazardous declaration arrives after container stuffing or ISF submission, you must halt loading until you can get an acceptable DG declaration and amend the ISF if necessary. Late DG acceptance can lead to unloading and demurrage.

• Changes to container stuffing location after ISF submission: Amend ISF immediately. Document chain-of-custody and reason for change to avoid penalties.

• Perishable hazmat (e.g., refrigerated chemicals): Add temperature control and separate stowage instructions; ensure terminal accepts refrigerated dangerous cargo and vessel reefer capacity is compatible.

• Multiple UN items in one container: Provide a consolidated DG declaration with per-item packing and segregation requirements. Map multi-line UN data to the ISF manifest lines.

• Shipments declared as limited quantity but exceed LQ thresholds at origin: Reject or reclassify. If packaging or quantity exceeds LQ, it must be treated as a full DG and stowage restrictions apply.

Penalties and enforcement risk (what you should tell your client)

You should inform importers that noncompliance can have serious outcomes:

• Civil penalties and liquidated damages are possible for failure to file an accurate and timely ISF.
• Carriers and terminals may refuse loading, offload containers, or delay cargo until remediation.
• Repeated failures can trigger audits, increased inspections, and possible suspension of privileges for you or your client.

Be candid: the easiest way to manage risk is to require completed DG declarations before accepting cargo into the supply chain and to file ISF on or before your internal cutoff.

Technical validation checklist (pre-ISF submission)

Before you file the ISF, confirm these items:

• All required ISF fields are complete and accurate.
• UN number and proper shipping name are present where applicable.
• HTSUS and country of origin fields are filled and match the commercial invoice/manufacturer data.
• Container numbers and stuffing location match physical documentation.
• Emergency contact is valid and available 24/7.
• Packing group, net quantity per package, and number of packages are specified.
• Special stowage/segregation flags provided if multiple incompatible hazmat items are present.
• Shipper has signed the dangerous goods declaration.
• If limited quantity, confirm eligibility and mark the package accordingly.
• Copies of DG declaration and packing list ready for CBP/terminal inspection.

How to file amendments and corrections

You will sometimes need to correct ISF data. Follow these principles:

• Correct mistakes promptly; quick amendments reduce penalty exposure.
• Document the reason and the date/time of the correction.
• Use your ISF filing portal or EDI endpoint to submit an ISF amendment—don’t rely on email only.
• Notify the importer and carrier of substantive changes (e.g., changes in hazmat classification or quantity).
• If the amendment occurs after the container is loaded, coordinate with the carrier to confirm whether stowage needs change or if the container must be offloaded.

Best practices for integration and automation

You should automate as much as possible:

• Standardize the safety declaration into an electronic form that feeds your TMS or filing software.
• Use validation rules for UN numbers, IMDG class codes, and allowable packing groups.
• Build prompts for missing fields and block filings with critical omissions.
• Keep an audit trail of who provided each data element, timestamps, and supporting docs.
• Train shippers and internal teams on mandatory fields and cutoffs.

Sample process flow you should adopt (start-to-finish)

Follow this step-by-step process so you can deliver consistent, compliant ISF filings for hazmat:

1. Booking and preliminary documentation
   • Receive booking, commercial invoice, packing list, and preliminary hazmat info.
2. Issue safety declaration request
   • Send the fillable template to shipper/producer and require signature.
3. Validate DG data
   • Confirm UN number, proper shipping name, packing group, and net quantities.
4. Map DG data to ISF fields
   • Populate commodity descriptions with cross-referenced UN numbers and ensure HTS classification aligns.
5. Internal validation and holdpoints
   • Ensure shipment passes your validations, confirm emergency contact, verify container number and stuffing location.
6. File ISF
   • Submit the ISF at least 24 hours before loading. Notify carrier and client.
7. Carrier dangerous goods acceptance
   • Ensure carrier acknowledges DG declaration and issues acceptance (carrier DG acceptance or “OK to Load”).
8. Monitor vessel/terminal updates
   • Track container status messages and vessel stow plans.
9. Arrival and CBP processing
   • Be ready to produce DG declaration and packing list for any CBP checks or terminal requests.
10. Post-arrival reconciliation and record retention

• Keep copies for CBP-required retention period (usually five years). Document all communications and amendments.

Recordkeeping and audit readiness

You should keep records for audits and incident investigations. Recommended retention and content:

• Keep the signed safety declaration, packing list, commercial invoice, and ISF filing confirmation for at least 5 years.
• Include timestamps and contact logs for any corrections or amendments.
• Retain carrier DG acceptance receipts and any terminal correspondence.
• Store documents in a searchable digital format.

Practical tips for communicating with shippers and clients

You can reduce friction by setting expectations:

• Provide a sample filled safety declaration when requesting information so shippers know the required level of detail.
• Set an internal documentation deadline earlier than the 24-hour ISF deadline to allow for corrections.
• Offer training or written guidance to repeat shippers about IMDG/UN requirements and your mandatory fields.
• Use conditional acceptance clauses in your booking terms that require accurate DG declarations and indemnity for inaccurate information.

FAQs you will likely face

• What if a shipper refuses to provide a signature on the DG declaration?

  • Don’t load. You should refuse to accept the cargo for shipment until you receive a signed declaration. Accepting unsigned hazmat increases legal and safety exposures.

• Can you file an ISF without UN numbers if cargo is non-hazardous?

  • Yes. UN numbers are mandatory only for hazardous items. But always confirm non-hazardous status in writing.

• Is ORM-D still valid?

  • ORM-D is largely phased out for international transport. Confirm current IMDG and local regulations; treat ORM-D-like commodities as regulated if applicable.

• What if HTSUS and UN classification conflict?

  • HTS and UN serve different regulatory functions—customs vs. transport. Make sure commercial descriptions reconcile and document your classification decisions.

Sample email you can send with the safety declaration form

Use a short, prescriptive message when asking for details. Keep it clear about deadlines:

• Subject: Urgent: Dangerous Goods/Safety Declaration Required for Booking [Booking #]
• Body: Please complete and return the attached safety declaration no later than [date/time], which is our internal cutoff to file ISF ≥24 hours before vessel loading. We require a signed declaration with UN number(s), proper shipping name(s), packing group(s), net quantity per package, and a 24-hour emergency contact. Cargo without a valid declaration cannot be accepted. If you need help completing the form, contact [your team] at [phone/email].

Final compliance checklist you should use before you file

Make this standard operating step a mandatory checklist before every ISF filed for hazmat:

• Signed DG declaration received
• UN number(s) and proper shipping name(s) present
• Packing group, net quantity, and number of packages captured
• HTSUS and country of origin entered
• Container number and stuffing location confirmed
• Emergency contact validated
• Carrier DG acceptance pending or received
• ISF filed at least 24 hours before loading and confirmation saved
• Amendment plan in place if changes occur

Closing recommendations and next steps

You should implement this safety declaration format as part of your onboarding for shippers and integrate it into your ISF workflow. Use automation to reduce manual errors, maintain a rigorous internal verification process, and keep clear lines of responsibility between shipper, importer, broker, and carrier. That approach will reduce the risk of inspections, penalties, and loading delays while improving safety for all stakeholders.

If you want, I can:

• Provide a downloadable fillable PDF version of the safety declaration template formatted for your company,
• Draft email templates tailored to shippers and carriers,
• Create a validation checklist you can plug into your TMS or filing software.