ISF is required on most ocean imports destined to the U.S. Non compliance with ISF requirements can lead to liquidated damages (penalties) to the Importer. For shipments that are on the water on or after June 30, 2016, U.S. Customs will no longer be required to send requests for liquidated damages (LD) claims to Headquarters for review, and the “three-strikes” approach to LD claims against importers’ bonds will also end. There is no change to cargo holds for ISF non-compliance; ports may hold cargo instead of (or in addition to) initiating LD claims. Headquarters has instructed ports to continue to focus on “significantly” late ISF shipments. Maximum penalty per ISF violation is $5,000.

https://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/assets/documents/2016-Jun/Vol_50_No_24_title.pdf

SOLAS Mandate & U.S. Rail Exports