When companies first decide to join CTPAT (Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism), they may view the initial application, annual reviews, and validations as isolated events meant to demonstrate how they meet the Minimum Security Criteria set by CBP (U.S. Customs and Border Protection). However, creating a secure supply chain is not just about occasionally showing compliance. It requires fostering a company-wide mindset that prioritizes security in every action and decision. To unlock the full value of CTPAT membership, companies must move beyond treating supply chain security as a once-a-year task and instead build a culture where security is integrated into daily operations.
At the core of CTPAT requirements is a detailed set of security guidelines known as the Minimum Security Criteria (MSC). These standards are designed for various types of companies within the trade community and may differ slightly depending on the company’s entity type. The MSC is divided into twelve distinct sections that address key areas of supply chain security, including physical security, access controls, education and training, and cybersecurity, among others. The MSC emphasizes that security measures should not be limited to written procedures. They must be consistently followed and supported throughout the organization. Leadership involvement, employee awareness, and proactive risk assessments are all necessary elements once a company chooses to become a CTPAT member. These practices are essential for maintaining a secure and resilient supply chain.
To build a true CTPAT culture, consistent training and communication are crucial. CTPAT encourages companies to provide regular training that aligns with each employee’s specific role and responsibilities. A single onboarding session is not enough. Instead, companies should offer ongoing learning opportunities and keep employees informed about evolving threats and best practices.
Some continuing education opportunities that support individuals involved in a company’s CTPAT program include:
Veroot also offers several ways to expand your CTPAT knowledge and stay current, such as:
(If you are interested in any of the offerings Veroot provides, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are happy to assist.)
Internal communication tools are also powerful reinforcement tools. Posting reminders about CTPAT policies in the workplace, sharing updates from CBP, and hosting company-wide security awareness events can help maintain momentum. When employees understand the purpose behind each requirement, they are more likely to stay compliant, engaged, and alert.
Company leadership sets the tone for the entire organization. When executives actively support supply chain security by making it part of the company’s daily culture and providing the right people and tools to support it, employees understand that it is a true priority. Still, leadership alone is not enough. Building a CTPAT culture takes involvement from every department.
Human Resources is often responsible for conducting background checks and managing visitor procedures. Procurement teams must evaluate international suppliers to ensure they meet security expectations. Information technology plays a critical role in today’s environment by monitoring system access and protecting sensitive data. When each department brings its own expertise to the table, the company creates a strong, coordinated approach to supply chain security.
CTPAT membership is not just a one-time or annual achievement. It is a continuous partnership that requires members to keep learning, educating, and evolving in order to stay ahead of the changing threats that impact supply chain security. A company with a strong security culture will embrace this mindset and view annual reviews and validations as opportunities to demonstrate progress and innovation.
Simple and actionable steps such as encouraging employees to report risks and suggest improvements, or having leadership include security objectives in departmental goals, help ensure that security remains part of the daily workflow. When everyone understands that supply chain protection is an ongoing responsibility, the company becomes more resilient and better prepared to manage risks and adapt to change.
If you would like to learn more about how Veroot can support your company’s CTPAT journey, we are here to help. Our expert CTPAT team offers consultation for new applications, annual reviews, and validations. We also provide tailored CTPAT policies and automation tools to simplify the process of sending security questionnaires and delivering training.
For more information or to request a demo, visit Veroot's website at www.veroot.com/ctpat