C-TPAT Certification

C-TPAT or Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism is a support program managed by CBP (Custom and Border Protection) of the United States. The main objective of this program is to enhance the security of private companies against terrorism. This is a voluntary program managed by CBP. It offers maximum protection to the supply chains against the concealment of weapons. While keeping that in mind, let’s explore what a C-TPAT audit is all about.

What exactly is a C-TPAT audit?

C-TPAT is a joint voluntary program among privately owned businesses and the government of the USA. This program develops cooperative relationships, which can make global border security and supply chain security stronger. In order to do that, C-TPAT will enhance the security of transporting conveyances, people, and cargo via the commercial shipping process. From regular C-TPAT audits, it is possible to make sure that all merchandise shipments that come to the United States adhere to the requirements of C-TPAT.

What are C-TPAT requirements?

To get a better understanding of the C-TPAT audit, you should also be aware of C-TPAT requirements. In order to be eligible to partner with C-TPAT, an importer should fulfill the following criteria:

  • Be an active importer who has imported goods to the United States during the past twelve months.

  • Has an active IOR (importer of Records) number

  • Have a continuous bond signed with the Custom and Border Control of the United States

  • Having a dedicated committee to maintain the security criteria of the supply chain

  • Has a dedicated officer, who is responsible for ensuring adherence to C-TPAT

  • Has not an unpaid debt to the Customs and Border Control

  • Has a completed security profile under the C-TPAT portal

Benefits of C-TPAT audits?

Now you have a good understanding of what C-TPAT audits are all about. While keeping that in mind, you may take a look at the benefits of C-TPAT audits.

  • You can reduce the total number of examinations conducted by Customs and Border Control
  • You can experience shorter waiting times at the border
  • You can receive exemptions from the Stratified Exams
  • Your inspections will get to the front of the line
  • You can access FAST Lanes (Free and Secure Trade Lanes) when your shipments are at the land-based borders
  • You will be assigned with a dedicated Supply Chain Security Specialist. It will be possible for you to contact the Supply Chain Security Specialist at any given time to seek assistance
  • You will be recognized as one of the trusted trade partners in the country. This will offer some additional benefits to you by the Customs administrations.
  • You can gain access to the C-TPAT web portal. It has lots of training materials that you can follow.
  • You will be eligible to take part in ISA (importer Self-Assessment Program)
  • You will be able to resume your business operations even after a terrorist attack or a natural disaster
  • You will be eligible to take part in the pilot programs organized by the government of the United States. The Secure Supply Chain Program by the Food and Drug Administration of the United States is a perfect example of such a program.

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