C-TPAT Violations, Penalties, and the Appeal Process

Acquiring C-TPAT membership will just get your business in the C-TPAT front door. In order to maintain C-TPAT membership status, and all the benefits that flow from the membership, your business must continue to comply with the programs minimum security criteria. If your business illustrates a lack of compliance with C-TPAT requirements, then it may be removed or suspended as a C-TPAT member. The final decision to remove or suspend C-TPAT membership is within the authority of the C-TPAT Headquarters Program Director, who bases the decision on reports and recommendations from C-TPAT field managers. In the event your companys membership is removed or suspended, this decision can be appealed to U.S. Customs and Border Protection Headquarters. During the appeal process, your business should submit all relevant information to demonstrate how the business has addressed the issues that resulted in the suspension or removal and a plan to remain in compliance with all C-TPAT requirements in the future. –R. Ellen Coley