Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism and the Importer Self Assessment Program

U.S. Customs has created two new voluntary programs that work to provide substantial benefits for companies that participate. The Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism ("C-TPAT") and the Importer Self Assessment ("ISA") program are based on the premise that importers with strong internal controls achieve the highest level of security and compliance with U.S. Customs laws and regulations. Participating companies are essentially entrusted to "self-police" so that U.S. Customs can focus its resources on higher risk, non-participating companies.

C-TPAT calls for companies to implement improved and transparent security practices throughout the supply chain in concert with their trade compliance obligations. Participants are guaranteed reduced inspections, eligibility for account-based processes (including monthly payment) and border clearance preference. C-TPAT requires companies to assess, improve and document security policies and procedures and communicate C-TPAT guidelines to business partners involved in the supply chain.

ISA is intended to improve and promote on-going trade compliance. Participating companies are exempted from U.S. Customs audits. Additional benefits include access to customs entry summary trade data including the ability to file a prior disclosure even when U.S. Customs identified the error (except in the case of fraud), coverage of multiple business units, as well as some industry-specific benefits. ISA requires that importers have documented internal controls associated with the import process, a system of monitoring (e.g. periodic testing) and participation in C-TPAT.

RoybalGlobal P.C. helps companies prepare for and manage the C-TPAT and ISA processes. We provide optimal efficiencies in enhancing internal controls to achieve acceptance into both programs. Ongoing maintenance procedures are designed for utilization by the company or for our regular review.

Click on any of the links below to find out more about our other services: