United States – Import Security

Importing into the United States

Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT)

The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is at the forefront of keeping the country safe by guarding against security threats and contraband of all kinds. They have launched several programs designed to secure the supply chain that introduces foreign goods into the commerce of the US. It is the duty of all parties in the supply chain to take precautions and measures to ensure shipments crossing international borders are secure and free of contraband. The program that offers all parties of the supply chain the best opportunity to benefit through participation is CTPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism).

As a certified CTPAT member, Near North Customs Brokers US, Inc. urges all eligible parties to apply for certification — carriers, importers, foreign manufacturers and exporters, customs brokers and consolidators. CTPAT offers trade-related businesses an opportunity to play an active role in the war against terrorism. By participating in this first, worldwide supply chain security initiative, companies will ensure a more secure and expeditious supply chain for their employees, suppliers, and customers.

Beyond these essential security benefits, CBP will offer advantages to certain certified CTPAT member categories, including:

• Reduced number of CBP inspections (reduced border delay times)
• Priority processing for CBP inspections (front of the line processing for inspections when possible)
• Assignment of a CTPAT Supply Chain Security Specialist (SCSS) who will work with the company to validate and enhance security throughout the company’s international supply chain
• Potential eligibility for CBP Importer Self-Assessment program (ISA) with an emphasis on self-policing, not CBP audits
• Eligibility to attend CTPAT supply chain security training seminars

One of the most important parts of a secure supply chain is the measures the carrier takes, ensuring shipment security. We recommend using a carrier that participates in CTPAT. As a CTPAT-certified carrier you can be sure they have:

• Implemented internal shipment checks/audits to ensure what is on your paperwork matches what is on the truck
• Implemented employee security background checks
• Implement Customs advice with regards to shipment inspection and truck inspection including their 17-point vehicle inspection process and 7-point container inspection process.

For more information, visit: U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s CTPAT program.