C-TPAT & Exporters

C-TPAT & Exporters

Why are Exporters being added to C-TPAT now? There is a need and opportunity to align C-TPAT to be more compatible with the WCO’s SAFE Framework and global Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programs. Also this will help to ensure benefits from current and future Mutual Recognition Arrangement’s (MRA) are reciprocal. Plus this will offer foreign AEO or foreign benefits for U.S. Exporters.

C-TPAT recently published the eligibility requirements and the security criteria for exporters to participate in the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT).

Per the publication, “As the C-TPAT program has continued its evolution, it has become apparent that exports also have an important role in international supply chains and while this sector is not as heavily owned by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the C-TPAT program, developing an export component for C-TPAT would further enhance both the program and its relationship with other mutually recognized Foreign Customs administrations.”

For C-TPAT purposes, an exporter is defined as:

A person or company who, as the principal party in interest in the export transaction, has the power and responsibility for determining and controlling the sending of the items out of the United States.

The Benefits for Exporters: 

• Reduced Examination Rates and Time: C-TPAT exporters will receive trade facilitation benefits, including prioritized examination over non-C-TPAT members.
• Priority Processing: C-TPAT shipments are moved ahead of any non-C-TPAT shipments.
• Business Resumption: Actions are taken to maintain communication and coordination with C-TPAT partners during shipping disruptions.
• Access to Individually-Assigned C-TPAT Supply Chain Security Specialist (SCSS): Each C-TPAT partner is assigned a SCSS who is available to assist the partner with questions regarding supply chain security.
• Eligibility to Attend C-TPAT Training and Seminars: Such as the annual C-TPAT conference which provides opportunities to network with other C-TPAT members.
• Access to the C-TPAT Portal System: C-TPAT’s portal provides a means of communication with the assigned SCSS and various multi-media security materials.

To see more

Exporter Entity Eligibility Requirements

Entities that wish to participate in the C-TPAT Exporter program must meet with the program’s definition of an Exporter as well as meet with the following eligibility requirements:

1. Be an active U.S. Exporter out of the United States.
2. Have a business office staffed in the U.S.
3. Be an active U.S. Exporter with a documentable
   1. Employer Identification Number (EIN), or
   2. Dun & Bradstreet (DUNS) number.
4. Have a documented export security program and a designated officer or manager who will act as the C-TPAT program main point of contact.  Additionally the participant should have an alternate point of contact should the designated point of contact be unavailable.
5. Commit to maintaining the C-TPAT supply chain security criteria as outlined in the C- TPAT Exporter agreement.
6. Create and provide CBP with a C-TPAT supply chain security profile which identifies how the Exporter will meet, maintain, and enhance internal policy to meet the C-TPAT Exporter security criteria.
7. In order to be eligible the Exporter must have an acceptable level of compliance for export reporting for the latest 12-month period and be in good standing with U.S. Regulatory Bodies such as: Department of Commerce, Department of State, Department of Treasury, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Department of Defense.

Check it out Here

If you have questions regarding C-TPAT for importers, for exporters, or both; please feel free to contact me – Karen Edwards at kedwards@supfrt.com or call 800.298.4305.