Why Comply?

The US Government is taking unprecedented steps to protect national security, and nowhere is the impact of that effort felt more than at the country's entry points. For global shippers, this heightened security consciousness presents myriad challenges when it comes to clearing goods through US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which requires more and allows for less than ever before.

Failing to understand and comply with the latest CBP requirements can cost shippers and importers serious time and money. A spot inspection can delay the movement of material for several hours; a hold can delay it for several days.

The good news is that CBP offers new tools and programs to help shippers and importers meet its new, stringent requirements. If shippers had to choose one action that would help expedite the movement of goods through Customs, it's to become certified under the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) program.

CBP launched the C-TPAT initiative in an effort to help it work more closely with businesses to improve border security. To qualify for C-TPAT certification, shippers and importers must meet a variety of requirements in several categories, ranging from business practices and record-keeping to facility security and developing working relationships with supply chain partners on security issues.

To understand more about the latest CBP programs and requirements, view the full article on page 36 in the February 2009 edition of the Journal of Commerce.