C-TPAT

Customs – Trade Partnership Against Terrorism

What is C-TPAT?

United States Customs and Border Protection leads the Customs-Trade Cooperation Against Terrorism (CTPAT), a voluntary, joint government business partnership for supply chain security and border protection (CBP). Any importers, carriers, consolidators, licensed customs brokers, and manufacturers who want to trade abroad, primarily into the United States, can use CTPAT Certification. It was created with the goal of using an uniform documented procedure to determine and decrease risk throughout their multinational supply chain.

Historically, the organization has focused on imports entering the United States. CTPAT certification is available in the United States to air carriers, consolidators, cross-border highway carriers, marine port authorities, ocean carriers, rail carriers, terminal operators, third-party logistics (3PLs) providers, Customs brokers, and importers.

The CTPAT programme was first launched by US Customs and Border Protection in November 2001, with seven significant US corporations as the first participants. Importers who have benefited from the programme place a high value on the programme. CTPAT certification is available in Canada for cross-border or long-haul highway transporters and manufacturers. It is also possible to certify Mexican manufacturers and cross-border highway carriers.

What are the Focus Points of C-TPAT?

• Decrease the risk of terrorism
• Increasing transparency
• Preventing tampering and providing security
• Ensuring accountability
• Establishing traceability
• Preventing trespassing

What is Include in the Security Module of C-TPAT ?

• Business Partner Requirements
• Procedures for Security
• Security of Containers
• Security of Conveyance
• Less than a full truckload (LTL)
• Controls on Physical Access
• Safety and Security
• Procedural Safety is number eight on the list.
• Threat Awareness and Security Training
• Physical Security
• Security of Information Technology

What are the documentation requirements for C-TPAT Standard?

• Information Security Management
• Physical Security Parameters
• Workplace Security System
• Competence & Upgradation
• Operational System Improvements
• Performance Measurement Records
• Process Control & Document

Which organizations are eligible for CTPAT Certification?

• Manufacturing units including sub-contractors
• Any additional business units, regardless of their nature, size, or location.

How will CTPAT Trade Compliance benefit your

Organization? Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism CTPAT

• Enhanced Business opportunities
• Recognition of socially compliant organization
• Opportunity for exports. Supplier Approval by overseas customers
• Exemption from stratified exams and a reduction in the number of CBP examinations
• Priority processing for CBP inspection
• Access to free, fast & secure trade along the borders
• The company gets a CBP security consultant and a supply chain security specialist assigned to it.
• A library of training resources and access to the CTPAT web-based Portal system
• Eligibility for additional US government pilot programme, such as the Secure Supply Chain

(SSC) Initiative of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

• Following a natural disaster or a terror attack, business resumption gets priority.

How long does it take to get C-TPAT certified?

The CTPAT programme has an online application process. Following that, 30-60 days after a firm or entity submits the supply chain security questionnaire, an examination of the company’s profile is conducted. CBP has up to 90 days to accept or reject the company’s application into the programme.

What is a CTPAT Validation?

CBP meets with corporate representatives and visits chosen domestic and international sites to verify supply chain security measures stated in the CTPAT participant’s security profile are accurate and being followed during a CTPAT validation.

Why was CTPAT created?

The purpose of this programme is to improve the security of our borders as well as the overall supply chain while allowing lawful trade to flow freely. CTPAT allows businesses to participate actively in the fight against terrorism.

Will the information our company provides to CTPAT be confidential?

All supply chain security information provided by companies applying for the CTPAT programme will be kept private. CBP will not reveal a company’s CTPAT participation.

How can AACS help you with a hassle-free Implementation Process of C-TPAT Audit Certification?

The AACS Team assists in the simple comprehension of CTPAT requirements and effective application methodologies. An initial analysis of the organization’s existing procedures is conducted, and a roadmap for a successful audit is created. To speed up the implementation process, complete documentation support is provided. The implementation process is described below:

• Initial site inspections and an evaluation of the current system in consideration of CTPAT requirements
• Gap analysis and planning for compliance
• Documentation including procedures, work instructions etc.
• Internal audits are conducted to ensure compliance prior to the final audit.
• Management review
• CTPAT audit / verification
• Closure of non-conformities.