PAYNS is built for our customers. With same-day account activation and an intuitive, wizard-driven ticket system, you can have your first shipment active in minutes. Our dedicated agents and advanced notification system ensure you stay informed every step of the way.
PAYNS offers transparent flat-fee pricing with no hidden costs. Unlike other services, all fees are clearly shown when you create a filing.
Need it fast? Our proprietary system outperforms traditional brokers, allowing you to submit and retrieve documents in minutes. With seamless online integration with U.S. Customs, we ensure timely transmissions and a hassle-free experience.
The best technology is only as strong as the team behind it. Our experienced agents have handled every scenario imaginable and are ready to guide you through even the most complex shipments.
The Importer Security Filing (ISF) must be filed 48 hours prior to the container being loaded onto the ship. You can begin as soon as your seller provides the shipping details. Filing early is ideal, but if you're running late, submitting it promptly can help reduce the risk of fines and penalties.
Before you begin, ensure you have all the required documents and information ready. Start by visiting the "Instructions" section to see exactly what’s needed for your filing.
Start your submission now using our ISF filing online form. We operate 7 days a week, ensuring all submissions are processed within 6 hours or less. Shipping never stops, and neither do we!
When importing ocean cargo, you will typically receive 4–5 key documents from the origin. As the Importer of Record (IOR), it’s your responsibility to complete and file the ISF in a timely manner.
ISF info sheet This essential document is required for filing the ISF. It includes critical details such as the container stuffing location, consolidator’s name, shipping and arrival dates, as well as the AMS Master and House bill of lading numbers with SCAC codes. While it may resemble a bill of lading, it serves a distinct purpose in the import process.
Commercial or Proforma Invoice This document includes the name and address of the seller and manufacturer, and serves as the primary record for determining import duties. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) assesses duties based on the invoice value of the goods. A customs broker will classify the items under the appropriate HTS Code of the U.S. Customs Tariff Schedule or as provided by the importer.
Draft bill of ladingA draft bill of lading serves as a receipt and proof that the goods have been loaded onto the ocean vessel for transport to the final destination port. While it contains important shipping details, it is not a substitute for the ISF info sheet, as it lacks all the necessary information required for ISF filing. The only exception is car imports, where the bill of lading alone is sufficient. A draft bill of lading becomes a final (or original) bill of lading once it has been: approved by all parties (usually the shipper and carrier); signed by the carrier (or its agent); and issued—either physically or electronically.