CTPAT is the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism, a program that aims to strengthen the overall supply chain as well as the security of international borders. The US Customs Service can best provide security through cooperation with the key components of the supply chain, namely importers, carriers, manufactures, and the like. By working together, this joint government-business plan can reduce the risk of terrorism.

The Customs Service is asking businesses to join CTPAT and to ensure the integrity of their security systems; they recommend going over their security practices with all businesses they work with in their supply chain. In order to participate in CTPAT, businesses must apply and conduct a self-assessment of their current supply chain security measures. This assessment is based on guidelines developed jointly by Customs and the trade community.

CTPAT Eligibility Requirements

Membership in the Customs-Trade Partnership is open to all air, sea, and rail carriers and importers, and to all areas of the supply chain. In time, other participants in the trade community will also be eligible to join. The US Customs Service will consult with representatives of the trade community to determine exactly how and when other trade sectors can participate in the partnership.

This partnership represents the world's first supply chain security initiative; participants will play an active role in thwarting terrorism. In doing so, companies will work toward creating a more secure working environment for their employees, as well as a more secure supply chain for their customers and suppliers. One of the ultimate long-term goals of the partnership is self-policing, letting supply chain operators have more responsibility of their security.