C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) is a voluntary program led by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that aims to strengthen international supply chain and border security. The program is designed to ensure that importers, carriers, brokers, and manufacturers take measures to prevent terrorism and other criminal activities that could pose a threat to the security of the United States.
C-TPAT is a public-private partnership that encourages the cooperation of importers, carriers, brokers, and manufacturers in securing the international supply chain. The program provides benefits to its members, such as reduced cargo inspections, expedited processing, and enhanced security.
To become a C-TPAT member, companies must conduct a comprehensive self-assessment of their supply chain security practices and submit a security profile to CBP. The security profile details the company’s security policies and procedures, and identifies potential security vulnerabilities and corrective actions taken to address them.
Once a company becomes a C-TPAT member, they must maintain their supply chain security practices and participate in regular security training and awareness programs. CBP may conduct periodic validations to ensure that C-TPAT members are meeting the program’s security requirements.
C-TPAT has become a widely recognized and accepted supply chain security program in the international trade community. By participating in C-TPAT, companies can demonstrate their commitment to supply chain security and help reduce the risk of terrorism and other criminal activities in the international supply chain.