C-TPAT
Supply Chain Security

Unit International is a proud supporter of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s C-TPAT program.

C-TPAT was established as a direct result of September 11, 2001. On that day, terrorists carried out suicide attacks at strategic targets in the U.S., killing over 3,000 people. The world would forever be changed because of that awful attack and the security of our nations infrastructure, transportation and trade channels had to be reviewed and strengthened. In November 2001, C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) was established. The goal? “…to safeguard the world’s vibrant trade industry from terrorists while maintaining the economic health of the U.S. and its neighbors.”

In the beginning, there were just seven major importers; now C-TPAT has over 11,400 certified partners, including importers, land carriers, sea carriers, customs brokers, freight consolidators, Mexican and Canadian manufacturers, and more, all working to insure international trade is safe and secure. 52% of all imports coming into the United States are certified.

C-TPAT certification requires that members meet the clear supply chain security criteria established for the program. Each member signs an agreement to work with CBP (Customs Border Protection) to protect the supply chain, identify security gaps, and implement specific security measures and best practices. In return, members are considered low-risk, so they are less likely to be examined based on their past compliance history.

Some of the benefits of becoming certified are:
* Reduced examination rates for importers: As an example, importers who exceeded requirements are 9 times less likely to undergo a security-based examination than non-C-TPAT importers. Importers that just meet expectations also enjoy 3.5 times fewer exams.

* Access to the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) Lanes: This amounts to expedited border crossings at many Canada / Mexico land border ports. This saves considerable time.

* Stratified exam benefit for importer partners: Those who also participate in the self-assessment program are exempt from stratified exams.

* Front-of-line processing: This privilege is granted to C-TPAT shipments subject to examination to the extent possible and practical. These shipments are moved to the head of the line over non-CTPAT importers.

And more….

Please use this link if you know of any potential security issues. Your information will be anonymous and kept confidential. Press Here