The Customs-Trade Partnership against Terrorism (C-TPAT) is a voluntary supply-chain security program led by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) focused on improving the security of private companies\' supply chains with respect to terrorism.

Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) is but one layer in U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) multi-layered cargo enforcement strategy. Through this program, CBP works with the trade community to strengthen international supply chains and improve United States border security. CTPAT is a voluntary public-private sector partnership program which recognizes that CBP can provide the highest level of cargo security only through close cooperation with the principle stakeholders of the international supply chain such as importers, carriers, consolidators, licensed customs brokers, and manufacturers. The Security and Accountability for Every Port Act of 2006 provided a statutory framework for the CTPAT program and imposed strict program oversight requirements.

CTPAT Benefits 

CTPAT Partners enjoy a variety of benefits, including taking an active role in working closer with the U.S. Government in its war against terrorism. As they do this, Partners are able to better identify their own security vulnerabilities and take corrective actions to mitigate risks. 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 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.

Procedural Security

Facilities that wish to receive a C-TPAT certification must show that they have security plans in place. Companies can fail to receive a certificate if they lack a documented security improvement action plan or if they do not update their procedures for improving their facility security on a regular base. Companies also must outline potential security vulnerabilities and any relevant actions they plan to take to eliminate those vulnerabilities.

Personnel Security

The C-TPAT audit checklist also helps companies verify that they have adequate checks in place on their personnel. Processes can include background checks on job applicants, including criminal background checks, verification of employment history and contacting previous employers and references. Other procedures include employee training on security measures, establishing processes for the disbursement and retrieval of employee identification cards and the display of a written list of security policies.

Physical Security

The physical security checklist allows facility managers to assess the steps the company takes to restrict hands-on access to its materials. Physical security procedures can range from access to locks and gates to the installation and monitoring of surveillance cameras and alarm systems. The checklist also includes examining the facility for signs of disrepair. For instance, a damaged container may leak toxic chemicals, while a damaged fence may allow easier access to thieves or terrorists.

Information Security

While companies rely on corporate databases to track their customers, vendors and internal processes, these systems are also vulnerable to attack from terrorists, identity thieves and anarchist hackers. The C-TPAT checklist gives companies guidelines in checking their information security measures. These procedures include how the company disburses its passwords, the installation of software and hardware tools to prevent unauthorized access and its methods for recovering lost or stolen data.

We perform supply chain security audits against all Customs-Trade Partnership against Terrorism (C-TPAT global and regional requirements) ensuring:

• Outside Barriers and Physical Security;
• Factory Internal Security;
• Factory Employee Security;
• Shipping Dock Security;
• Key and Seal Controls;
• Security Processes;
• Container and Merchandise Movement;

Computer Systems Security and Controls.

Through this initiative, CBP is asking businesses to ensure the integrity of their security practices and communicate and verify the security guidelines of their business partners within the supply chain. A third party C-TPAT audit, we will ensure the security of your supply chain, verify your compliance, and improve U.S. border security.