Minimum-security criteria for importers and carriers already enrolled in the United States Customs and Border Protection C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) program — or those wishing to join — took effect March 13, 2006, according to US Customs.
A phased implementation schedule has been implemented and applies to all US/Canada and US/Mexico highway carrier members.
At a minimum, on a yearly basis, or as circumstances such as a security breach or incident dictate, highway carriers must conduct a comprehensive assessment of their international supply chain security practices based upon C-TPAT minimum-security criteria.
Where a highway carrier does not control a specific element of its supply chain, such as a trucking yard, terminal, handling of trailers, or process subject to these criteria, the highway carrier must work with these business partners to ensure that pertinent security measures are in place and adhered to throughout their supply chain.
C-TPAT recognizes the complexity of international supply chains and security practices, and endorses the application and implementation of security measures based upon risk. Therefore, the program allows for flexibility and the customization of security plans based on the member's business model.