On April 30, the 76-day shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) finally ended. One of the biggest impacts on the CTPAT program was the pause on validations. Now that DHS/CBP is back to normal operations, here’s what you should know to get ready.
The CTPAT Program’s validation schedule follows the federal Fiscal Year (Oct-Sep). Because of both the recent shutdown and the one in January 2026, the program is now behind on completing FY26 validations (which wrap up in September 2026).
As things ramp back up, here’s what to expect:
1. Less flexibility with scheduling
CTPAT usually works with members to find an agreeable date for validations. But with the current backlog, there may be less flexibility as they work to catch up before the end of FY26.
2. Possible shift to virtual validations
Since virtual validations are easier to coordinate, validated companies may have a virtual revalidation instead of an onsite visit.
3. Some validations may move to next year
Revalidations are required at least once every four years under the SAFE Port Act. If your company was revalidated within the last three years and was on the schedule for FY26, there’s a chance it could be pushed to the next fiscal year – though this is probably the least likely outcome.
About communication for your CTPAT validation
If your company is due for a validation this fiscal year, now that the shutdown is over, it is not a bad idea to contact your CTPAT Supply Chain Security Specialist (SCSS) to see if there is a plan to schedule your company for a validation.
SCSSs must give at least 30 days of advance notice of scheduling a validation, which is received via a letter through the Portal. Your company may have already received this letter, and you will not receive a second letter. The next contact by your SCSS may be through email or a call, so if you have already received the 30-day letter, then you should be prepared to work with your SCSS to schedule a validation date if called upon.
If you have not received the letter yet, then you should be provided with at least 30 days to schedule a date after receiving the letter. And as always, be sure your Point of Contact (POC) information in the CTPAT Portal is current!
With the fiscal year coming to an end shortly, it is key to remain in contact with your SCSS to manage expectations.
