The Bureau of Customs and Border Protection has introduced a partnership program between the entire import trade community and themselves.

We, are a voluntary participant in this new Customs and Border Protection partnership initiative in the war against terrorism entitled:       CTPAT- Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism

The goal of this program is to elevate the level of security standards associated with merchandise entering the United States from abroad. The entire import supply chain of merchandise entering the commerce of the United States is the focus of this new initiative. Importers of merchandise into the U.S. are responsible to ensure that security standards are in place throughout the entire supply chain process. This supply chain process begins with overseas manufacturers, suppliers and vendors of merchandise destined for the United States, on up to an including the ultimate delivery of imported goods to its final destination in the United States. The scope of the security compliance standards also includes all foreign handling and transportation of merchandise destined for the United States.

In our review of the current procedures to evaluate and make necessary recommendations, we require your full cooperation as the overseas shipper of our imported products. We have enclosed a security questionnaire that we request that you to complete and return to our attention as soon as possible.

We will also need the following information detailed as specifics:

  1. Detailed description of the staging areas that all merchandise is held after designation for the United States.
  2. Security controls that are in place for the transportation carriers and associated vendors who are responsible for handling our merchandise.
  3. Detailed description of the supply chain process and all internal controls that effectively monitor the security levels associated with our products.

Our efforts to meet Customs regulatory standards largely depends on our ability to monitor our international trade process efficiently. We are confident with your assistance we can meet our desired goals.

Professionally,  

  Importer of Record Company Name              Responsible Party                       Title                           Date