CTPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) is a voluntary security program initiated by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency.
It was developed in response to the events of September 11, 2001, with the goal of enhancing the security of supply chains and protecting against terrorist activities.
CTPAT promotes collaboration between businesses and customs authorities to achieve a higher level of security in global supply chains.
The partnership program involves collaboration between CBP and various businesses, such as importers, freight forwarders, carriers, and manufacturers, which commit to implementing and adhering to specific security measures and procedures.
In return, participating companies receive various benefits, such as reduced customs inspections, faster processing of goods, and higher priority for inspections.
German companies can participate in the CTPAT program if they have business relations with the United States and are willing to meet the security requirements of the program.
To participate, they must follow these steps:
Self-assessment: Companies should first conduct a self-assessment of their security measures and procedures to ensure they meet the requirements of the CTPAT program.
Registration: Companies must register on the official CTPAT website (https://ctpat.cbp.dhs.gov) and complete an online questionnaire providing information about their company and security measures.
Validation: After registration, the CBP reviews the submitted information and, if necessary, conducts an on-site validation to ensure the company meets CTPAT requirements.
Certification: If the CBP approves the company's security measures and procedures, the company receives a CTPAT certification, confirming its participation in the program.
Maintaining the partnership: After certification, companies are required to continuously review and improve their security measures and participate in regular reviews and validations by the CBP.
Participation in the CTPAT program can help German companies secure their supply chains and strengthen their business relationships with the United States.