CTPAT & Customs Compliance Programs
Practical assistance for companies strengthening customs compliance and supply-chain security procedures, including CTPAT readiness, documented controls and risk-based program development.
Build the Program Before the Review.
CTPAT and broader customs compliance programs require more than a written policy. Companies need procedures that reflect how their business actually operates, responsible personnel who understand those procedures, and documentation showing that controls are being followed.
Express CHB can help companies organize their program, identify gaps and develop practical procedures around their actual import and supply-chain activities.
Turn Requirements Into Working Procedures.
Program Assessment
- Review current supply-chain security practices
- Identify gaps against applicable program expectations
- Organize existing policies, records and supporting evidence
- Prioritize areas requiring corrective action
Policies & Procedures
- Develop practical written procedures
- Define responsibilities and escalation points
- Align written controls with actual operations
- Create repeatable review and documentation practices
Risk Assessment
- Identify relevant business and supply-chain risks
- Document controls used to reduce those risks
- Assign responsibility for follow-up
- Establish a process for periodic reassessment
Readiness Support
- Organize program materials for review
- Identify documentation gaps
- Prepare personnel to explain their procedures
- Support corrective-action planning where needed
Security Is One Part of a Strong Import Program.
Importers also need controls around classification, valuation, country of origin, recordkeeping, Partner Government Agency data and broker instructions. A strong compliance program establishes who is responsible, what information must be reviewed and how exceptions are handled.
Express CHB can help translate recurring customs obligations into documented internal procedures that employees and service providers can actually follow.
Controls That Support Better Import Compliance
Importer & Business Partner Controls
Procedures for importer information, authorizations, business-partner documentation and appropriate validation.
Product & Classification Controls
Processes for maintaining product information, classifications, supporting specifications and review of new products.
Entry & Broker Instructions
Defined procedures for commercial documents, entry data, PGA information, broker communication and exception handling.
Recordkeeping & Corrective Action
Processes for retaining customs records, documenting issues and following through when an error or compliance gap is identified.
A Practical, Risk-Based Approach.
1. Understand Operations
We start with how the company actually imports, ships, documents and manages its supply chain.
2. Identify Gaps
Existing controls and documentation are compared with the requirements relevant to the program.
3. Build the Framework
Procedures, responsibilities and supporting documentation are organized around real workflows.
4. Prepare for Review
Outstanding gaps are addressed and personnel are prepared to explain how the program works.
Program Work Is Separately Scoped.
The scope depends on the company's size, business model, supply chain, existing documentation and the work required. Express CHB will define the project and professional fees before substantive program development begins.
Considering CTPAT or Strengthening Your Customs Compliance Program?
Tell us about your company, import activity and current procedures. We'll determine the appropriate review and project scope.