CTPAT

What is C-TPAT?

C-TPAT stands for Custom Trade Partnership Against Terrorism. By using this program US Custom and Border Protection Agency works with the trade community to strengthen international supply chains and improve US Border security. C-TPAT is a voluntary program which recognizes that CBP can provide the maximum level of cargo security only through close cooperation with the principal stakeholders of international supply chain such as importers, carriers, consolidators, licensed custom brokers and manufacturers etc.

To join C-TPAT program the organization should comply with the requirements raised by CPB to become a member of C-TPAT program to protect the supply chain, identify the security gaps and implement the specific security measures and best practices. US based retail stores also develop their own security standard based on C-TPAT requirements.

Mostly retail stores and business organization who import goods to US from rest of the world are members of C-TPAT Program and tats the reason the expect the complete and perfect compliances from their supply chain such as the companies who manufacture their products and exports, cargo agents, consolidators and shipping companies etc. This is the reason they conduct the C-TPAT audits of their suppliers and service providers. Even the companies who intend to export  to the United States get the audit conducted on C-TPAT standard.

By Implementing C-TPAT requirements organization can improve its overall security compliance to assure the confidence & satisfaction, as well as meet the satisfaction of its customers.

Benefits of C-TPAT Audit

• Reduced number of CBP examinations
• Front of the line inspections
• Possible exemption from Stratified Exams
• Shorter wait times at the border
• Assignment of a Supply Chain Security Specialist to the company
• Access to the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) Lanes at the land borders
• Access to the CTPAT web-based Portal system and a library of training materials
• Possibility of enjoying additional benefits by being recognized as a trusted trade Partner by foreign Customs administrations that have signed Mutual Recognition with the United States
• Eligibility for other U.S. Government pilot programs, such as the Food and Drug Administration’s Secure Supply Chain program
• Business resumption priority following a natural disaster or terrorist attack
• Importer eligibility to participate in the Importer Self-Assessment Program (ISA)
• Priority consideration at CBP’s industry-focused Centers of Excellence and Expertise