Question

Discuss the benefits to a business of joining the C-TPAT program. *250 words*

Answer 1

The benefits to a business of joining the C-TPAT program:-

Faster transport of goods across the border

The faster you can get your goods across the border, the sooner you can sell them. C-TPAT certification helps you achieve this goal in several ways:

• Shorter wait times at the border
• Access to the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) lanes at the borders with Canada and Mexico
• Fewer CBP inspections, plus the ability to skip ahead of non C-TPAT certified containers in the inspection line
• The ability to get your cargo released by CBP faster

Priority consideration following an emergency

In the event of a natural disaster or terrorist attack, C-TPAT certified companies are eligible to resume business first.

Lower fines

If you make a mistake and find yourself facing a penalty — for example, because of an error in your Import Security Filing — your fine will be up to 50% less than the standard rate.

Potential for more business

Many domestic companies will only do business with importers that are C-TPAT certified. This gives you a competitive edge by enhancing your brand image and providing you with an important certification to include on your marketing material.

Site, personnel, and data security

In an article published in the Journal of Commerce, Jan Raymond identified several hidden benefits of C-TPAT certification. These include site, personnel, and data security. Here’s what Raymond has to say:

• Site security. Thieves — both external and internal — generally go for the lowest-hanging fruit. By putting C-TPAT compliance practices in place, you make your company an undesirable target. This will lower your losses from theft as well as your insurance premiums.
• Personnel security. The C-TPAT security checks will “deter questionable personnel from applying” and also reduce your likelihood of hiring someone illegally. Both of these things will improve the overall integrity of your workforce.
• Data security. By securing your company’s information systems, you’ll be less likely to have your data stolen by someone who’s up to no good.

Improved internal processes

This one also comes from Jan Raymond. He notes that the process improvements required by C-TPAT will make your records more accurate, boost productivity, and improve your quality assurance (QA) process. More business, better security, lower fines — sounds pretty good, right? Begin your compliance journey today by tracking visitors to your facility using a visitor management system. Sign up now for your 14-day free trial of The Receptionist for iPad. To learn more about C-TPAT certification, visit the CBP website.