C-TPAT

Questions and answers about C-TPAT

  • DISCREPANT SEAL PROCEDURE

    Question: When an importer received a discrepant seal what is the required response by the importer. What is the expectation to resolve the discrepant seal issue ? ************ ANSWERS: Track to root cause; file an internal memo/report explaining discrepancy. If there are systemic errors in the process, create and implement a corrective action plan, so […]

  • C-TPAT FOR LTL SHIPMENTS

    Question: Hello, this is a questions to C-TPAT members who ship on FOB basis. How are you managing the LTL foreign inland security? How are you ensuring that your goods are secured, if it is not a full container load with a CTPAT security seal? I have heard stories of “milk runs” to to pick […]

  • C-TPAT FOR EXPORTS

    Question: Can the membership provide “quick-hit” advice on the EXPORTER C-TPAT application for a small-to-mid size US exporter? Specifically: Has anyone in the membership experienced the cradle to grave timeline? What have the benefits been for your company? Do you have a template or resources available to compile the following: Documented export security program C-TPAT supply chain security […]

  • C-TPAT IMPORTER OF RECORD

    Question: If I have a container that crosses the southern border, can I show the US broker as the importer for C-TPAT purposes and deliver to their warehouse? Will this allow me to join the FAST program? Container will NOT be unloaded, but will have visible inspection before delivery on to US customer (who is […]

  • C-TPAT WAREHOUSE SECURITY

    Question: Anyone out there have generic rules on warehouse security. Are guard shacks an absolute?  Perimeter fencing ? *********** ANSWERS: Be sure to look at the use of the words SHOULD and MUST in the guidelines.  If it says MUST, you must have it.  If it says SHOULD, it’s a best practice, but if you […]

  • C-TPAT SEAL REPLACEMENT AFTER INSPECTION

    Question: We would like to hear from other CTPAT certified members regarding customs breaking the seal at the port and re-sealing with a CBP seal.   Customs at the port refuse to indicate the new seal number on the driver’s paperwork, nor sign the driver’s paperwork that the seal was changed. Our receiving process dictates that […]

  • C-TPAT THREAT ASSESSMENT

    Question: I would like to know how others are conducting partner threat assessment for C-TPAT audit, especially for companies that don’t have software solutions. To clarify I am auditing the area of Terrorism, Contraband Smuggling, Human Smuggling, Organized Crime, conditions with a country which may foster any threats such as poverty, social unrest, political instability, […]

  • C-TPAT INSPECTION PROCESS

    Question: Based on the C-TPAT Importer Security Criteria the seven-point inspection process is the shipper’s responsibility prior to stuffing.  However, is the seven-point inspection process the receiving party’s responsibility in the US too?    More specifically, is it required that the receiving party in the US measure the inside dimensions of a container with a tape […]

  • C-TPAT DOCUMENTATION

    Question: Is it a C-TPAT recommendation or a C-TPAT requirement that importers measure and document inside container dimensions as part of their container security inspection =============== Answers: It is a suggested best practice. See www.cbp.gov for CTPAT security requirements for your business type. ========== A requirement.  7-point inspection.  Minimum length, but also inspect side/width and […]

  • C-TPAT CONTROLS

    Question: How do other C-TPAT members or potential C-TPAT member handle their vendor database when the vendor is the Importer of Record?  What security controls do we expect or can we enforce if we are not the importer of record?  What expectations does CBP have? =========== Answers: Will be very interested in group answers. We’ve […]

  • C-TPAT MANAGEMENT

    Question: Can the membership please weigh in on the approximate number of hours per week and month it takes to manage a $750M in annual sales company that is currently in C-TPAT? ************** ANSWERS: Sales and C-TPAT are unrelated.   The question requires clarification,   if the question is directly related to C-TPAT program  management a helpful […]