Since its inception, the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism, or C-TPAT, certification has had its fair share of critics. Whether you’re a fan or a detractor, however, it’s here to stay.

Over the last decade, companies operating within the border region have come to understand the philosophy, as well as the fundamental importance of supply chain security. A common language has developed that allows operations teams to discuss the matters at hand. New words and phrases have become commonplace in our daily lives such as GPS, command center, vigilance, best practices and roving patrol just to name a few. The C-TPAT program has been an amazing organizing catalyst for companies ensuring that a just-in-time manufacturing environment is achievable. All of this would not have been possible without the benefits of certain inputs to the private sector provided by Customs and Border Protection (CBP).