What is CTPAT?
The Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) program is a voluntary government-business initiative to build cooperative relationships that strengthen and improve overall international supply chain and U.S. border security. To apply, businesses must fill out a company profile as well as a detailed security profile – which is then reviewed, approved, and validated in person by CBP. Many companies must make internal improvements to meet the required security standards the CTPAT program entails. CBP encourages participation by providing incentives to participants meeting or exceeding the program requirements. As a result, the program helps CBP achieve its twin goals of improving security while facilitating the flow of global trade.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
Businesses eligible to apply for CTPAT membership include:
- U.S. importers of record;
- U.S./Canada highway carriers;
- U.S./Mexico highway carriers;
- Air, rail and sea carriers;
- Licensed U.S. customs brokers;
- U.S. marine port authority/terminal operators;
- Third party logistics providers;
- U.S. freight consolidators;
- Ocean transportation intermediaries and non-vessel operating common carriers (NVOCCs);
- Mexican and Canadian manufacturers; and
- Mexican long-haul highway carriers.
What are the Benefits of CTPAT Participation?
CTPAT importers enjoy certain incentives based on their tier status within a three-tier structure. Tier I incentives are afforded to those importer partners that have been certified; Tier II level to those that have been certified and validated; and Tier III incentives to those that go above and beyond – and have exceeded the program’s requirements – exhibiting best practices.
Want More Information?
Relevant blog posts:
- What You Missed at the CTPAT Conference
- Do You Want to be a “Trusted Trader”? CTPAT is No Longer Enough
- CTPAT VALIDATION AND MINIMUM SECURITY CRITERIA & CTPAT MINIMUM SECURITY CRITERIA CHANGES
- What You Missed at CBP’s Virtual Trade Week
- Relevant on-demand webinar:
How Can Diaz Trade Law Help?
Diaz Trade Law regularly advises clients on the guidelines necessary to implement within your supply chain to ensure U.S. Customs you have a secure supply chain worthy of entry into the CTPAT program. Diaz Trade Law regularly helps companies apply for admission into the CTPAT program, go through the validation process, and assists with the yearly update process to keep companies in good standing with CBP.