Businesses that move goods across the U.S. border are usually well aware of the CTPAT, Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism program, which was established by the U.S. CBP (Customs and Border Protection) agency after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The aim of the agency behind establishing the CTPAT program was to enhance the security of the global supply chain.
CTPAT program plays a major role in encouraging businesses to implement security measures to keep their supply chain secured against terrorism and other criminal activities. Becoming CTPAT certified help businesses get numerous benefits. It helps businesses of all sizes get benefits such as faster processing times, reduced customs inspections, and improved supply chain security.
Those who are well aware of the benefits join the program so they can also get the CTPAT certification. Paying attention to the benefits helps businesses decide whether to join a CTPAT program for certification or not. The top benefits of CTPAT certification for your business are listed below.
Reduced Amount of CBP Examinations
One of the primary benefits of having a CTPAT certification is the reduced amount of CBP examinations that your business will face. Joining a CTPAT program not only just make it easy for you to get the certification but also help you become a certified member of CTPAT. This further helps your company to be recognized as a low-risk trade partner, which is important to reduce the amount of CBP examinations. The reduction in the amount of CBP examinations due to CTPAT certification not only just helps your business save time and money but also helps to avoid delays and reduce the risk of damage to your goods during examinations.
Improved Supply Chain Security
CTPAT certification requires businesses to implement different security measures throughout their supply chain. Their purpose behind it is to prevent as well as detect potential security threats. Implementing security measures and best practices, helps CTPAT certified businesses be better equipped so they can easily protect their supply chain against terrorism, theft, and other criminal activities. This also turns out to be best for the partners and customers of the CTPAT certified businesses, who are less likely to be affected by disruptions in the supply chain.
Reduced Custom Fees
CTPAT certification also leads to reduced custom fees. Businesses that are CTPAT certified are considered low-risk. This decreases your business’s chances of being less likely to be subject to fines or penalties for customs violations. Additionally, CTPAT certified businesses are also considered eligible for reduced fees for a few customs services, such as the release of goods after hours or expedited processing.
Access to Expedited Processing
CTPAT certification helps your business get access to different expedited processing programs, such as the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program. FAST allows for expedited processing of shipments between the United States and Canada, which further reduce transit times and enhance your business supply chain efficiency. Additionally, becoming a CTPAT certified member also helps your business receive priority processing during CBP inspections. This further reduces transit times and also enhances supply chain efficiency.
Improved Risk Management
To get the CTPAT certification, businesses have to implement risk management protocols throughout their supply chain. This includes a variety of things such as conducting risk assessments, establishing security protocols, and implementing training programs for your business employees as well as contractors. By implementing these protocols, it becomes easy for your business to improve its risk management capabilities and reduce the risk of supply chain disruptions. It also helps your business with security breaches and other potential risks.
Stronger Relationships with Customs Officials
One of the major reasons why many businesses join a CTPAT program is to have stronger relationships with customs officials. Certificates like PIP certification, and CTPAT certification helps your business establish stronger relationships with customs officials. Participating in the program helps your business and employees gain a better understanding of customs regulations as well as procedures, and build strong relationships with CBP officials. This also helps your business navigate the process of customs clearance more efficiently and reduces the risk of customs-related delays.
Final Thoughts
Globally, CTPAT certification is a recognized standard for supply chain security. Becoming a certified member of CTPAT, help your business enhance its credibility with customers, suppliers, and stakeholders. Becoming CTPAT certified is a complicated process. It requires a strong commitment to implement security measures and best practices, but the benefits can be significant for businesses of all sizes.
