The Value Of Partners In Protection (PIP) And C-TPAT Memberships
Interested in spending more time on shipping and less on border delays? In the age of global trading, your reputation as a company will be focused on security practices and getting your goods across the border with fewer inspections and expedited border clearances.
The recent Partners in Protection (PIP) Newsletter confirmed as at January 1, 2012, there were 1,449 PIP Members in Canada. With the recent announcements with the U.S. for a "shared vision for perimeter security", PIP has also confirmed that 78% of all PIP Members are already C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) Certified as well.
Is it necessary? For some, yes! PIP Membership is a necessity for eligibility into certain programs. As a PIP Member you are committed to supply chain security, and the benefits include:
- Eligibility to apply to the FAST Program;
- Eligibility to the Low Value Shipment Program;
- Enhanced reputation as being a low-risk company;
- Fewer border delays; and
- Expedited clearances
Is C-TPAT Advantageous For You?
As the United States and Canada have agreed to a shared vision for perimeter security, we can expect that perimeter security to slowly become more harmonized.
What does that mean exactly? To start, an initiative has been announced for the C-TPAT and PIP Programs. Other programs will become more integrated such as the Trusted Trader Program and Partners in Compliance (under the Customs Self Assessment).
Of the 1,449 PIP Members in Canada, 62% of those are highway carriers. The benefits of expedited border clearances and fewer inspections combined with the enhanced reputation can provide you with a competitive advantage, as well as position your organization to be internationally recognized.
