2018
What are the Advantages of Using C-TPAT Certified Carriers?
What are the advantages of using C-TPAT-certified carriers?
Answer: Companies who have undergone certification with the Customs – Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) standards ensure security across international borders.
In recent years, C-TPAT certification has become more and more of a sought-after feature among logistics companies. Over 10,000 companies including importers, customs brokers, freight carriers, and other firms have become C-TPAT certified since the creation of the standard. At its core, the Customs – Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) certification combats terrorism by training those involved with cross-border shipments.
Benefits of C-TPAT Participation
There are many benefits to C-TPAT certification for both the involved companies, and their customers. Some of these benefits include:
- Reduced amount of border cargo inspections
- Cost savings due to fewer customs exams
- Membership is considered to be a mitigating factor when penalties are involved
- Ongoing training with the program to decrease resources spent on compliance issue
- Helps to ensure safety and security at international borders
As the program continues to evolve, more benefits will continue to surface. As the program is relatively new, Customs continues to weight the options of creating benefits for future years of C-TPAT certifications.
Some of the expected future benefits may include:
- Expedited responses to inspections
- Enhances penalty mitigation
- Prior disclosure benefits
- Tax incentives
Becoming C-TPAT certified involves a number of commitments including questionnaires, processes, and having dedicated staff to manage the project continuously.
Using a company that is C-TPAT certified means that you are contributing to the safety and security of international borders – plus, continual participation in the program brings forward a variety of great benefits including potentially lower customs costs and lesser exams.
