Everything to Know About CTPAT Certification

• March 6, 2020
• Madeline S.

The transportation industry is heavily regulated, but with the right certifications, your trucking business can more easily navigate this complex industry leading to higher profits. Having CTPAT certification will allow your business to more easily transport goods into the US and throughout the country. Here is everything you should know about this type of certification.

What is CTPAT Certification?

Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) certification is a voluntary supply-chain security program. Its aim is to improve the security of private companies’ supply chains in regard to terrorism. CTPAT not only protects U.S. borders but also secures the international supply chain.

Who is Eligible for CTPAT Certification?

Only certain types of companies are eligible to become CTPAT certified. This includes:

US Importers of record

US exporters

US/Canada and US/Mexico cross-border highway carriers

Mexico long-haul highway carriers

Rail carriers

Sea carriers

Air carriers

US Marine port authority and terminal operators

Consolidators

Mexican manufacturers

Canadian manufacturers

Certain invited foreign manufacturers

Licensed US customs brokers

Third-party logistics providers

What are the Benefits of Being CTPAT Certified?

In exchange for securing supply chains, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offers those with CTPAT certification certain benefits. These include:

• Automatic access to the FAST program
• Expedited processing
• Less frequent inspections
• Shipments for inspection get sent to the front of the line
• Expedited clearance time
• Reduced enforcement and compliance inspections

How do Companies Become CTPAT Certified?

In order for an eligible company to become CTPAT certified, they must first conduct and fully document a security risk assessment. Then they must submit an application via the C-TPAT portal. The final step is to complete a supply chain security profile.

Navigating the world of transportation certifications can be complicated though. All applications and documents must be accurate and filed in a timely manner. Our AVAAL Consulting services can handle all of your companies needs when it comes to CTPAT certification.

Contact us today to see how we can help your trucking business obtain CTPAT certification.