What are the potential benefits (beyond compliance itself) of creating the information infrastructure you will need to comply with the rule?

For one thing, the rule “forces” importers to create a global supply chain information hub that includes their partner community — their suppliers, brokers, carriers, 3PLs, and banks — and provides them with the kind of information they can use to be smarter about how they conduct their business.

Beyond the increases in efficiency provided by the elimination of redundant manual data entry and reduction of loss- and error-prone paper documents, importers can expect to see benefits from control of documentation content before it is finalized and the easy availability of documents and data for SOX compliance, audits and analysis.

The system would also provide visibility into manufacturing processes and pre-shipment processes, as well as in-transit visibility.

Finally, the system could be used to inform the financial supply chain, tying in to related settlement processes.

While there is bound to be some pain associated with implementing the 10+2 rule, there is also substantial opportunity for gain.