C-TPAT Memo on Security Issued by CBP
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has sent an email to Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism partners highlighting certain security matters for the purpose of raising awareness and renewing partner vigilance regarding supply chain security.
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CBP Sees Increase in Marijuana Smuggling Incidents in Fall Months
During the fall months, CBP tends to see an increase in marijuana smuggling incidents from Mexico. Containers/trailers can be compromised at any point in the supply chain, but they are especially vulnerable while in transit to the border. Ensuring proper container inspections and sealing procedures are being followed at the point of loading coupled with close monitoring of cargo movements are critical security measures, which can mitigate the risk of compromise.
C-TPAT Members Need to Ensure Non-Member Carriers Meet Security Criteria
In those cases where the subcontracting of highway carrier service is taking place to non-member companies, C-TPAT members need to make sure that carrier is meeting the program’s security criteria. Truck driver security training is also a simple yet important way to reduce risk as well as making sure all equipment is in good working order.
CBP ports along the Southwest border report that C-TPAT company drivers frequently request to be sent for secondary exam due to their self developed risk indicators e.g. directed to pick up a trailer at a first time or unknown location. Actions such as these can make it much more difficult for drug trafficking organizations to target C-TPAT shipments.
CBP Says Members Have Developed Quick Response Notification Protocols, Etc.
CBP states that this is also an opportunity to reiterate the program’s views concerning reporting possible narcotics smuggling activity. Clearly embedded in the program’s security criteria is the recognition that C-TPAT members must have procedures in place to record and immediately report anomalies to CBP. This is a fundamental part of the program.
According to CBP, many C-TPAT members have developed quick response notification protocols beginning with the 1-800-BE ALERT (1-800-232-5378) watch line and which includes local port of entry management/watch commanders at the land border ports of entry as well as their assigned Supply Chain Security Specialists (SCSS). Members are also developing proactive contingency plans and “what if” scenarios in case compromise occurs in order to be ready to react very quickly to determine where the breakdown occurred. These procedures are in addition to those which are required in accordance with foreign government laws.
CBP Addresses C-TPAT Members Fearing to Report Anomalies
There have been reports that some members might choose not to report a suspected anomaly or known incident for fear of jeopardizing their C-TPAT status. The CBP enforcement posture is available on the CBP website and it is important to emphasize that should a breach of the supply chain occur involving a C-TPAT member, CBP will conduct a Post Incident Analysis and the level of cooperation, including self-reporting, by the C-TPAT member is factored into the ultimate resolution of the incident. Where companies/drivers do alert CBP in advance of arrival of the shipment, CBP views this information favorably.
(See ITT’s Online Archives or 12/20/10 news, 10122030, for BP summary of the U.S. and Mexico Executive Steering Committee on 21st Century Border Management Action Plan, which includes a C-TPAT-like program for Mexico.
See ITT’s Online Archives or 12/14/10 news, 10121423, for BP summary of CBP Commissioner Bersin stating that he wants to see a big increase in C-TPAT participation.)
CBP email available by sending a request to documents@brokerpower.com.