Introducing C-TPAT Program(Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism)
What is C-TPAT?
C-TPAT stands for Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism. It is a voluntary supply-chain security partnership program led by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) focused on improving the security of private companies’ supply chains with respect to terrorism.
The goal of C-TPAT is to strengthen international supply chains and improve United States border security. The program works by partnering with businesses to improve their security practices and procedures. In return for their participation, C-TPAT Partners are able to better identify their own security vulnerabilities and take corrective actions to mitigate risks.
C-TPAT Benefits
Some of the benefits of the program include:
- 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 C-TPAT web based Portal 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 US Government pilot programs
- 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
C-TPAT Security Criteria
The C-TPAT minimum security criteria can be divided into three focus areas:
- Corporate security: This includes having a written security policy, conducting background checks on employees, and training employees on security procedures.
- Physical security: This includes securing facilities and cargo, controlling access to sensitive areas, and using security seals and other tamper-evident devices.
- Transportation security: This includes conducting security assessments of carriers, using secure containers and trailers, and tracking and tracing shipments.
Conclusion
C-TPAT is a valuable program that help businesses to improve their security posture and reduce their risk of being targeted by terrorists. AEWIN is a Certified member of the US Customs Border Protection’s (CBP) C-TPAT program. The program is internationally recognized by member states of the World Customs Organization and demonstrate highest supply chain security standards within the private sector to secure trade across international borders.
Please let us know if you have any questions or comments about AEWIN’s supply chain and hardware integrity. Feel free to reach out to our friendly sales!
