From its inception in November 2001, the CTPAT program was intended to be a pillar of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) multi-layered cargo enforcement strategy. Through this program, CBP works with the trade community to strengthen international supply chains and improve U.S. border security.
CTPAT is a voluntary, public-private sector partnership program which recognizes that CBP can provide the highest level of cargo security only through close cooperation with the principal stakeholders of the international supply chain such as importers, carriers, consolidators, licensed customs brokers, and manufacturers.
CTPAT members are considered low risk, and are therefore less likely to be examined at a U.S. port of entry, while also receiving several other benefits.
