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During periods of heightened alert, governmental operations at the federal, state, and local levels will be adjusted to meet any new threat conditions. Alert Level Orange (High) will have specific implications for port of entry operations. As C-TPAT participants,
you should be aware of the following:

· You may experience a potential increase in the number of cargo
examinations and reviews.

· You may experience longer than average delays in the clearance
and release of inbound cargo. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will do everything possible to minimize these occurrences.

· Your participation in C-TPAT will be taken into consideration when determining the priority for completing examinations and
reviews.

 
Actions to Take

While we cannot guarantee release or review times in a period of heightened alert, C-TPAT participants can take measures to minimize potential delays in the processing of their cargo.  We offer the following suggestions:

§         Ensure the accuracy of all manifest information submitted to CBP for the review and clearance of cargo prior to arrival

§         Ensure the accuracy of all entry documents submitted to CBP for clearance and release 

§         Work closely with all your partners throughout your supply chain (e.g. foreign shippers, carriers, forwarders), to ensure the proper sealing of all containers and/or conveyances

§         Communicate with manufactures and vendors about information pertaining to critical operations in your key export areas that may be at risk for terrorist activity

§         Communicate with primary vendors, suppliers, and supply chain business partners to note any undue delays or unusual occurrences involving the movement of goods

§         Work closely with brokers, agents, and other service providers to report any anomalies in the movement of goods to entry

In addition to expediting the admissibility / examination evaluation of your merchandise, these steps should also help to assist government efforts during periods of heightened alerts.

Customs and Border Protection 24 hr. Notification for Suspicious Activity
(202) 927-0425
 
Customs and Border Protection / C-TPAT Headquarters Office
(202) 344-1180