Customs–Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) is a voluntary, joint government-business initiative to help add to supply chain visibility and increase border security. Although generally C-TPAT focuses on imports into the United States, it has more recently opened up to U.S. exporters since they are too exposed to considerable risk. In order to accommodate the requests and expanding parameters, a framework for the C-TPAT program and requirements has been deployed.

As globalization continues to cause the world to "shrink" and eCommerce rapidly spreads into every retail category, the requirements to source and manage a global supply chain also increase. Whether as part of its strategic direction or in order to keep up with the competition, there are few companies that do not have some type of eCommerce presence.

If you’re having trouble keeping pace with the rollout of U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s single window initiative rollout, you’re not alone. In early February, CBP announced a new implementation schedule for its Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), another delay in a program that is guaranteed to impact every U.S. importer.