CTPAT

CTPAT

CTPAT – Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism

• CTPAT – Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism 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.

• When an entity joins CTPAT, an agreement is made to work with CBP to protect the supply chain, identify security gaps, and implement specific security measures and best practices.
• Applicants must address a broad range of security topics and present security profiles that list action plans to align security throughout the supply chain.
• CTPAT members are considered to be of low risk, and are therefore less likely to be examined at a U.S. port of entry.

1. Reduced number of CBP examinations
2. Front of the line inspections
3. Possible exemption from Stratified Exams
4. Shorter wait times at the border
5. Assignment of a Supply Chain Security Specialist to the company
6. Access to the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) Lanes at the land borders
7. Access to the CTPAT web-based Portal system and a library of training materials
8. 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
9. Eligibility for other U.S. Government pilot programs, such as the Food and Drug Administration’s Secure Supply Chain program
10. Business resumption priority following a natural disaster or terrorist attack
11. Importer eligibility to participate in the Importer Self-Assessment Program (ISA)
12. Priority consideration at CBP’s industry-focused Centers of Excellence and Expertise.

Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) Trade Compliance Handbook, a resource for understanding CTPAT’s modernized Trade Compliance program.

Attachment | PDF | Size 8.09 MB | Date 09/19/2023