If you’re managing your company’s CTPAT certification, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the new requirements and how they affect your day-to-day procedures. The good news is that CTPAT compliance can be a manageable process, and plenty of resources are available to help you overcome the hurdles. The following tips will help you get started on the right foot.
5 Tips For Successfully Managing CTPAT Compliance
1.Create a System
A program isn’t effective if it’s not organized. Create a system that will allow you to track changes and updates, as well as communicate these changes to employees in a timely manner. You should also ensure that all relevant resources are easily accessible for your staff members so they can refer to them when necessary.
2.Train Your Employees
Your CTPAT program is only as effective as your employees. Ensure all staff members understand their responsibilities and provide training on how to perform those tasks. If a new employee joins your staff, ensure they receive the appropriate level of training. Including a CTPAT awareness training course in your onboarding process is a simple and effective way to achieve this for all employees.
3.Normalize Internal Audits
The CTPAT program is about more than just making sure Minimum Security Criteria (MSC) criteria boxes are checked. It also requires you to monitor areas of potential vulnerabilities. Your organization should regularly conduct self-inspections and audits by an authorized third party. When a problem is identified, it should be quickly resolved so it doesn’t cause more significant security issues down the road jeopardizing your CTPAT certification status.
4.Create a Contingency Plan
If your business suffers a security incident that could potentially disrupt business operations, you must have a plan of action prepared. Implementing a contingency plan ensures minimal impact on your customers and your organization remains CTPAT compliant. Implementing a contingency plan ensures minimal impact on your customers and your organization remains CTPAT compliant.
5.Consider a CTPAT Advisory Team
Having CTPAT professionals who can assist in facilitating compliance processes in your business will save you time and energy. Your advisory team can help by reviewing your CTPAT program, providing feedback, and recommending changes to make it more effective. They can also help you train and educate all employees involved in the program, including drivers and warehouse workers.
Where We Stand
If you already have a CTPAT program in place, it may be time for an update. Check in with your Supply Chain Security Specialist about your next CTPAT validation and update your internal procedures and documentation to ensure that it meets all requirements.
If you need assistance in managing your CTPAT program, our CTPAT team is here to help.
About Us
The CT Strategies team of former CBP CTPAT Supply Chain Security Specialists (SCSS) and Directors help companies successfully navigate CBP’s CTPAT program. Using insights from over 80 years of combined CBP operational and policy knowledge, we leverage our first-hand CTPAT supply chain security experience and connections to current CBP leadership, so you can save time and money and get the most out of your CTPAT membership.
