Supply Chain Security

Of ever greater concern are the possibilities that international terrorists would attempt to conceal and smuggle a nuclear device in sea containers that arrive at international seaports each day. Customs authorities are now seeking to push the cargo screening process outward – to make the border or seaport the last line of defence, not the first line of defence. Customs can now longer wait for a ship to discharge its cargo to decide what they want to examine. They will require complete manifest information before a vessel arrives. In some cases, they will need that information before the container is loaded on board the ship.

We can help clients obtain C-PAT and AEO accreditation. We can audit their supply chain security and help them to take steps to substantially improve physical security, personal security, access controls and other actions, that together strengthen the overall supply chain and improve security. Some of the benefits to the importer are clear: fewer customs examinations, more predictable deliveries, reduced inventory needs, less risk of theft, lower transportation costs and, of course, no weapons of mass destruction in the container.