CBP to automate C-TPAT process

CBP to automate C-TPAT process    Importers and transportation providers in May will be required to use a Web-based portal to communicate with U.S. Customs and Border Protection about their participation in the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism, a voluntary supply chain security program.
   CBP announced this week that companies seeking to enter the program will submit their application and security profile through the new security portal, while existing companies will also use the site to periodically update their profile, submit questions and receive security alerts and other information through the Internet-based system.
   Importers and carriers will have until July 1 to update their account information, while marine terminals, transportation intermediaries, and foreign manufacturers must comply with the new requirements by Aug. 1. Failure to comply will result in a company being denied C-TPAT benefits for reduced inspection levels and being kicked out of the program, CBP said.
   The system is expected to increase the efficiency of certifying and validating companies by eliminating the use of paper-based documents and making the process more uniform.
   CBP said it will issue an address for the new Web page.