C-TPAT Certification

What is C-TPAT?

C-TPAT stands for Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism. This is a voluntary logistics and supply chain partnership program, developed by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), promulgated in November 2001 with the goal of improving US border security.

C-TPAT certification binds main stakeholders in the international trade and logistics chain including: importers, exporters, carriers, manufacturers, ... C-TPAT is a measure in the strategy CBP's multi-layered cargo control enforcement strategy to address potential terrorism and security breaches from imported shipments.

Official logo of CBP's C-TPAT program

Benefits of participating and being certified compliance of the C-TPAT

Reduce the number of examinations and wait times at the border for imported shipments.
C-TPAT compliant importers will be eligible for going into (FAST) clearance flows at the border of Canada and Mexico, as well as eligible for participating in the Importer Self-Assessment Program (ISA).
Enhance effective self-monitoring of your cargo security activities through compliance with C-TPAT requirements
Shorter inventory cycle times due to more efficient supply chains
Incorporation of good security practices and procedures into existing logistics management methods and processes.

Requirements to participate in C-TPAT

To comply with the requirements of the C-TPAT, businesses must be able to meet certain security, privacy, and safety requirements. CBP sets forth different requirements that correspond to certain industries and the role the business plays in the industry.

Air Carriers
Highway Carriers
Long Haul Highway Carriers in Mexico
Rail Carriers
Sea Carriers
Consolidators (Air Freight Consolidators, Ocean Transport Intermediaries, and Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers (NVOCC))
Customs Brokers
Exporters
Foreign Manufacturers
Importers
Marine Port Authority and Terminal Operators
Third Party Logistics Providers (3PL)

CBP's information about the C-TPAT program can be found at:

https://www.cbp.gov/border-security/ports-entry/cargo-security/ctpat-customs-trade-partnership-against-terrorism/apply/security-criteria

Certification steps to certify C-TPAT compliance

Step 1: Conduct a review of the current status of documents and conditions ensuring actual cargo security to ensure full compliance with the requirements of C-TPAT.

Step 2: Submit an application form for assessing and certifying compliance to CGLOBAL (voluntary assessment program)

Step 3: CGLOBAL conducts an assessment of the enterprise's compliance with the C-TPAT’s requirements according to the checklists and assessment reports established by CGLOBAL.

Step 4: CGLOBAL grants “Certificate of compliance to C-TPAT” to businesses that fully meet the C-TPAT’s requirements according to checklists and assessment reports established by CGLOBAL.

Step 5: Enterprises provide “Certificate of compliance to C-TPAT” to customers and partners to prove compliance and register to participate in the membership program of US Customs and Border Protection. Period (CBP) if needed.

What minimum requirements should the business have?

Legal documents including business licenses and factory layout;
Documents on vision, commitments and responsibilities for the security of goods;
Documents on suppliers, contractors and transport units;
Procedures and policies on network security, information technology systems;
Documentation on Transportation Security and International Transport Instruments.
Seal security documentation
Security Procedures / Agricultural Security / Physical Security
Physical access control procedure
Personnel security procedures
Awareness, training and education procedures

Why choose for certification/confirmation by CGLOBAL?

CGLOBAL-KH INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION CO., LTD is a certification body registered to do business in Cambodia to ensure the prestige and companionship of businesses in Cambodia.
CGLOBAL is a certification and inspection body headquartered in the United States (in California and North Carolina, United States) and therefore we understand and comply with legal requirements of the US government.

Certification of Compliance of the C-TPAT is CGLOBAL's voluntary assessment program that ensures objectivity and full compliance with the C-TPAT’s requirements due to auditors with experience and competence that meet ISO 19011.

CGLOBAL is a global certification network with headquarters in the United States, branches in Europe (Germany), Southeast Asia (Singapore), China and Vietnam. With global coverage, the brand is globally recognized, so CGLOBAL's certification/confirmation certificate is recognized and acknowledged globally.

C-TPAT certification FAQs

Validity of C-TPAT Certificate

C-TPAT certificate is valid for 01 year. At the expiration of this period, CGLOBAL will conduct a reassessment to reissue the same certificate as the first audit.

How long does it take from full documentation to certificate?

Enterprises need to be consulted or establish their own, apply the management system according to C-TPAT then send the certification application to CGLOBAL-KH. The time for issuance of the Certificate is based on the time of the end of the official assessment and the customer provides sufficient corrective evidence (if there is an inconsistency in the assessment process). The time for certification is usually 10 to 15 days from the time the formal assessment at the business ends (however, it depends on the customer providing sufficient evidence to correct the nonconformity if any).