C-TPAT offers eligible 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. There are a number of tangible and intangible benefits of participating in C-TPAT.
Reduction in U.S. Customs Inspections. CBP has significantly increased its exam rates over the last several years due in large part to the increased use of Non Intrusive Inspections and other targeting tools. C-TPAT shipments are 4 to 6 times less likely to undergo an examination.
Free and Secure Trade (FAST). C-TPAT shipments entering the U.S. from either Canada or Mexico are able to use designated lanes at numerous border crossings as long as the U.S. importer, foreign manufacturer and cross border highway carrier are certified members.
Business Resumption is a benefit that many in the C-TPAT program may not view as tangible but certainly a significant reason for joining. CBP has conducted comprehensive business resumption planning in the event of a significant disruption in the flow of trade to ensure actions are taken to maintain communication and coordination of CBP processes at our border with U.S. Government and foreign government stakeholders, as well as the trade community. In the event a national emergency or terrorist act occurs, which results in the closing of air, land and sea U.S. Ports of Entry, C-TPAT status will be taken into consideration when CBP resumes the processing of shipments. Thus, C-TPAT certified shipments will have priority access to the U.S. market.
Front of the Line Privileges are granted to C-TPAT shipments that are selected for an examination. To the extent possible and practicable the containers can be moved ahead of any non C-TPAT shipments awaiting exam, regardless of how long they have been there. This can translate into substantial monetary savings in that containers will not wait as long in line at a Container Examination Site and although they are still being examined, they will be processed more quickly than non-members.
Marketability through involvement in C-TPAT can be associated with things that every company needs to maintain: reputation and brand equity. Much like certification with other U.S. government agencies or the International Standards Organization (ISO) C-TPAT membership can raise a company’s reputation and ability to secure business.
The Fight Against Terrorism is the most statuesque benefit of C-TPAT and allows CBP and those members of the trade community who are willing to go the extra step to work together to enhance international supply chain security and prevent potentially crippling economic disruption.
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