Please see our defintions page for questions pertaining to acronymns and general definitions.
C-TPAT Initiatives
What is C-TPAT?
C-TPAT is the acronym for Customs-Trade Partnership Agreement. It is a US Customs program working with importers, carriers,
brokers and other industry sectors in creating a seamless security conscious environment throughout the entire international
commercial process. The business community and US Customs can exchange anti-terrorism ideas, concepts and information, to
increase the security and efficiency of the entire commercial process from the point of manufacture through importation and
distribution.
What is the purpose of C-TPAT?
Customs and a C-TPAT participant can build a stronger partnership by discussing supply chain security issues, sharing
"best practices," and cooperatively developing solutions to address potential vulnerabilities. The face-to-face nature
of a validation encourages both Customs and the C-TPAT participant to better understand the role each plays in securing
our borders against international terrorism.
What is a C-TPAT Profile?
Your profile is a record of your supply chain security procedures and protocols.
Why do I need a C-TPAT Profile?
An accurate and effective C-TPAT Profile, and adhered to, can expedite your release of cargo and result in fewer inspections.
What is a C-TPAT Inspection/Validation?
A C-TPAT validation or inspection is a process through which we meet with company representatives and potentially
visits selected domestic and foreign sites to verify that the supply chain security measures contained in the C-TPAT
participant's security profile are accurate and are being followed.
Who can conduct a C-TPAT Inspection/Validation?
An inspection should be done by an unbiased, third-party consultant. US Customs does not conduct validations/inspections.
Owners and operators may conduct their own, but it is not recommended.
Is a C-TPAT Profile required by Federal Regulations?
No. C-TPAT is currently a voluntary program, but indications show it will likely become Federal law at a later date.
DHS Vulnerability Assessments & Security Plans
Why do I need a DHS Vulnerability Assessment?
All organizations with facilities as broadly defined in NVIC 11-02 (paragraph I d) are required to have facility
security plans in place by the end of this year (DEC 03). Our Security Assessments & Mitigation Strategies
will help determine your vulnerablitlies, essential in designing your facility security plans.
What are the necessary elements in the required Port and Facility Plans?
NVIC 9-02 focuses on Guidelines for Port Security Committees and Port Security Plans for U.S. ports.
This NVIC, released SEP 02, outlines policies and procedures that the COTP uses in order to develop the
regional port security plan. At CBMC, we know what is required, and with our assessments, will include
mitigation strategies that if followed, will fulfil the USCG's requirements.
Do DHS Vulnerability Assessments and Plans apply to vessels as well as port facilities?
Yes. NVIC 10-02 focuses on Security Guidelines for Vessels. This NVIC, released in OCT 02,
outlines security requirements that vessels must follow. We will also perform assessments on vessels.
What are the Security Guidelines for my Port?
NVIC 11-02 focuses on Recommended Security Guidelines for Facilities. This NVIC, released in JAN 03,
directs ports to develop facility security plans by JAN 04. Outline guidance on developing plans and
policies that facilities can use to develop a comprehensive security program, including a simplified risk assessment.
What are the security threat levels for the maritime industry?
The USCG uses a three level maritime security level to communicate necessary protective level for threats relating
to maritime activities or facilities. MARSEC levels may be assigned to the entire nation or they may be set for a
particular geographical area, industrial sector or operational activity. MARSEC levels are protective measures to
be implemented in order to protect against threats.
| Low-Green | MARSEC Level I |
| Guarded-Blue | MARSEC Level I |
| Elevated-Yellow | MARSEC Level I |
| High-Orange | MARSEC Level II |
| Severe-Red | MARSEC Level III |