C-TPAT
Commercial Packaging is a proud member of Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT). This voluntary government venture offers trade-related businesses an opportunity to play an active role in the war against terrorism. If you would like more information about C-TPAT Certification please click here to enter the website for the Department of Homeland Security.
With years of preparation and modification, and after a stringent review of our security policies, as well as those of our overseas partners, Commercial Packaging officially became a validated member of the methodical and proactive initiative, Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT). Commercial Packaging looks at the time, effort, and money spent on our C-TPAT validation as a significant and commendable investment. We want to help do our part in protecting our country, our trade, and our people. That's why we have voluntarily improved upon our daily operating procedures to comply with C-TPAT’s regulations. Our validation is focused on the verification of supply chain security processes and procedures that we have readily agreed to verify and/or perform under the auspices of the C-TPAT program.
While Commercial Packaging whole-heartedly believes that C-TPAT is simply the right thing to do, there are benefits to both us, as an importer, as well as to our customers. As a validated member of C-TPAT, we may avoid the possible consequences of those who do not participate, such as increased chances for:
- Greater scrutiny of cargo;
- Added examinations;
- Requests for information;
- Penalties and costs related to inspections, which are passed on to customer
- Increased insurance rates (resulting in higher costs for customers)
- No guarantees for cargo processing times; and
- Increased reviews and audits.
To our customers, this can mean:
- Minimizing supply chain disruption
- A reduced number of CBP inspections (Decrease in carrier wait times resulting from border delays)
- Priority processing for CBP inspections (Front of the line processing for inspections, when possible)
- Access to FAST program (Free and Secure Trade)
- Greater ability to predict lead times
- Diminished cargo theft and pilferage
- Significant opportunities for cost avoidance (assessed penalties and costs to get cargo released from CBP)
- Improved asset utilization
It has always been a part of Commercial Packaging's thinking to give attention to the components needed for sound supply chain security. And we recognize that border security will be much more efficient if US Customs involves business in the process of securing and inspecting cargo. To that end, we are delighted to partner with US Customs and Border Patrol to hone in on potential gaps. Commercial Packaging maintaining safety…..one package at a time.
