CTPAT AND TRUSTED TRADER PROGRAMS CAN SAVE YOU TIME AND MONEY

With all the recent enforcement actions taken by U.S. Customs importers can expect delays and more Customs exams on import shipments. Delays are already being noted by some importers and the cost of exams can easily exceed $1,000 per container. There is a way an importer can reduce the number of exams and delays and that is by getting certified under the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT).

The “trade war” between the U.S. and China has caused duties on many Chinese origin products to increase drastically and as a result U.S. Customs is more closely monitoring import shipments, especially those originating in China and other countries in that region. Importers who are not CTPAT-certified face more costly exams and delays.

CTPAT is a voluntary program that allows importers to take steps to secure their supply chain and in doing so allow Customs to certify the importer as compliant with the CTPAT requirements. While getting certified requires an investment of time and money by the importer the savings from having fewer exams and delays can quickly cover those costs.

As a certified CTPAT participant an importer demonstrates their commitment to the security of our supply chain and Customs is promising to expand the benefits available to certified companies. Now is the time to get certified.

Customs is also planning to roll out the “Trusted Trader” program in the coming months, allowing importers to review their own level of Customs compliance and take steps to get certified as compliant. Companies that obtain Trusted Trader status will gain even more benefits from Customs. We’ll have further information about this new program later this year.