Importance of Picking a Forwarder that Is C-TPAT Certified

Revised 3/2/2021

When you’re choosing a freight forwarder, safety is an essential factor to consider. To guarantee that you are making the best (and safest) choice in your forwarder, opt for a CTPAT certified forwarder.

 

C Tpat log

 

This certification is part of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) initiative to regulate goods coming in and out of the country, specifically across borders. It ensures the country’s safety by strengthening security measures and identifying risks.

 

What is Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT)?

CTPAT stands for Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism. This certification is CBP’s voluntary initiative which helps build bridges between the CBP, Homeland Security, carriers, brokers, and importers. The requirements to become CTPAT certified are extensive. Only those companies willing to upgrade their systems, security, communications, and transparency will receive this certification. Shipping companies and forwarders who do receive certification, protect the integrity of supply chains and ultimately the safety of the United States.

The initiative began in 2001, with seven large American corporations behind it at the outset. It now has over 11,000 participants ranging around the globe. The total number of partnerships amount to more than half the value of all goods imported into the U.S.

An organization which has qualified for CTPAT must communicate clearly with the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and Homeland Security; they must also share security measures with other trading and supply chain companies. By exchanging standards, protocols, and schedules, the CBP keeps supply chains and borders safe from terrorism as well as black or gray market goods.

Benefits of Dedola being part of the CTPAT initiative

The number one benefit of being part of the CTPAT initiative is that a forwarder works directly with the U.S. Government and Border Patrol to keep the country’s borders secure. Also, being CTPAT certified could potentially mean:

  • Less CBP exams
  • Shorter wait times at borders
  • Expedited resumption of business after a disaster

What Could Happen If a Company Isn’t CTPAT Certified?

If a forwarder is not CTPAT certified, there is an increased risk of delays due to multiple examinations and inspections or having goods held indefinitely.

The goal of CTPAT is to protect the U.S., but it also may help forwarders speed up your supply chain. If a company is not CTPAT-certified, it may slow down business, which is costly for all involved.

Get Your Goods Where They Need to be Faster and Safer.

It is vital to pick a freight forwarder with CTPAT certification. As your agent in the supply line, a CTPAT-certified forwarder may get your goods and supplies to their destination faster, at lower costs, and with little-to-no risk of security breaches. Dedola Global Logistics is C-TPAT certified and will get your goods where they need to be faster and safer.

Dedola has partners in 190 countries. Focus on the essential aspects of your business and let Dedola handle transportation. Call us at 888-922-7628 to learn about the Dedola Difference.


Popular Blog: Tariff Code Review: A Guide to Reducing Duty Rates – You may be qualified to pay less in tariffs and not even know it.