C-TPAT CUSTOMS TRADE PARTNERSHIP AGAINST TERRORISM
Valued Customer; Elements International has recently joined with Customs Border Patrol (CBP) through the C-TPAT program in attempt to strengthen our supply chain and the safety of imports into the United States. The C-TPAT program was established by CBP in 2001 and was intended to touch and strengthen every part of a supply chain. As our customer and the final delivery destination of direct container shipments, you are the final part of our supply chain. We ask that you use this power point as a guide to help strengthen the security at your facility. We are certain that through this process you will find this program to be beneficial to your own facilities in addition to reaping benefits such as more timely deliveries and fewer customs exams for your Elements shipments. We thank you in advance for your support and cooperation. Sincerely, Elements International
What is Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT)? A voluntary program. Developed to strengthen the security of a supply chain. Helps to prevents cargo loss. Helps to guard against cargo tampering; introduction of illegal merchandise such as drugs and weapons as well as human trafficking. http://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/videogallery/2014/04/c-tpat-introduction-video
Meeting Minimum Security Criteria Minimum Security Criteria is the absolute minimum a company must do to satisfy the requirements for C-TPAT. Below is a list of these processes. It is very important that your company begin implementing these processes if you have not already done so. Identify the driver Check container number Check for valid seal without tampering Check seal number 7 point container inspection Item and piece count verification
Identify the Driver First Ask the driver for a valid ID. Verify that the name on the ID matches the name listed on the delivery receipt document that the driver has brought for you to sign. If it does not match Refrain from signing the paperwork and notify Elements immediately.
Check the Container Number Next Verify the container number matches what is listed on your shipping documents. If it does not match Refrain from signing the delivery receipt. Notify Elements immediately.
Seal Check Then REMEMBER VVTT. View Does the seal appear to have been tampered with? Are there any unusual markings on the seal? Are all of the numbers straightly aligned without any imperfections? Verify Does the seal number exactly match what is listed on the shipping documents? Tug Tug on the seal- is it secure? Twist Twist the seal- is it secure?
Seal Check If the seal does not pass the checks Refrain from cutting the seal and notify Elements immediately.
7 Point Container Inspection Now Compare the physical conditions of the container to those on the 7 point inspection document. *You should have received all necessary shipping documents in your most recent container tracking e-mail update. If you have not received these documents please notify the Elements Imports department Be sure to check all 7 points!! If the conditions of the container do not match what is listed, please notify the Elements imports department right away.
Item and Piece Count Verification Finally Verify that the number of pieces received on your container matches what is listed on your packing list. Verify that you have received the correct items by checking the SKU numbers against the packing list. If there is a discrepancy Fill out the receiving receipt document and follow the instructions on the document to send it back. *This document serves as notification to Elements that a resolution is needed to ensure you get all items ordered. As soon as determined, you will receive a call with the resolution.
In Case of Emergency Call CBP directly at 800-BE-ALERT Notify Elements immediately
Container Security It is very important that containers be secured at all times while on your premises. If the container is a live unload, precautions should be taken to ensure no unauthorized persons are permitted onto the container or around the unloading area. If the container is dropped at your facility for unloading, the container should be secured by both a king pin lock and seal at all times.
Want More Information? Check out the CBP official website! http://www.cbp.gov/border-security/ports-entry/cargosecurity/c-tpat-customs-trade-partnership-against-terrorism
Still Have Questions? Contact Us! Primary Imports Contact Steven Hutcheson Shutcheson@elementsgrp.com 877-575-3888 x 119 Secondary Imports Contact Carly Weiner Cweiner@elementsgrp.com 877-575-3888 x 112
A Special Thanks from the Elements Crew Elements would like to thank you for your participation in keeping our country safe!