IWLA Launches C-TPAT Security Guidelines: Deemed Compatible By CBP
The International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA) recently announced a C-TPAT compliance program for third-party warehouses. The IWLA program is based on Security Best Practices Guidelines, developed by IWLA, that have earned endorsement of the Customs and Border Protection (CBP). In a July 19, 2007 letter to IWLA president and CEO Joel Anderson, CBP concludes that the IWLA guidelines meet the minimum security criteria for C-TPAT, noting in particular that the IWLA guidelines include an important component, which is verification to determine compliance and/or the degree of compliance to these guidelines.
Currently, CBP does not allow third-party warehouses or other transportation intermediaries to participate directly in the C-TPAT program. The IWLA guidelines are designed as a C-TPAT compatible standard to ensure that third-party warehouse and logistics companies meet the security requirements of their C-TPAT business partners in the supply chain.
"IWLA is proud to release these security guidelines, which create a reliable mechanism for third-party warehouses and logistics providers to assure their business partners that they fully comply with C-TPAT," said IWLA president and CEO Joel Anderson. "We were not content to sit back and wait for CBP to allow our industry to become C-TPAT certified partners. Instead, after extensive discussions with CBP, IWLA decided not only to design a set of rigorous standards, but to take it to the next level by providing for 3rdparty verification to gauge compliance." With this critical verification component, the IWLA Best Practices are the first of its kind – a voluntary industry security guideline recognized by CBP as meeting C-TPAT criteria.
"This is the gold standard," added Joel Anderson. "It will not be easy to comply, nor will it be inexpensive to gain verification. However, supply chain security is just that important to our member companies." IWLA has enlisted the services of Danbee Investigations, a highly respected independent organization, whose specialty has been supply chain security for over 30 years. Danbee will conduct a comprehensive, detailed and methodical verification process, including an on-site facility audit, for each IWLA member company seeking to demonstrate its compliance with C-TPAT security requirements. IWLA will also continue an ongoing dialogue with CBP to ensure the agency approves of the way in which verification is implemented.
The IWLA is a trade association of warehouse logistics providers that helps their members operate high-quality, profitable businesses. IWLA focuses on the warehouse logistics business, providing ideas and information that make it easier for member companies to succeed. Visit www.iwla.com for more information.
SOURCE: The International Warehouse Logistics Association