The CBP offers three tiers of certification:
Tier One – Certified C-TPAT member
- 5-8 times fewer exams than non C-TPAT importers
- Lower level of random compliance measurement examinations
- Access to FAST (Free and Secure Trade Program) lanes on land borders, including expedited cargo processing
- If container is selected for exam, it will receive priority and be moved to front of the line.
Tier Two – Minimum criteria has been met and validated
- Same benefits as Tier One
- Twice the risk score reduction
Tier Three – Exceeds minimum security standards (validated) and adopted best practices
- Benefits of Tiers One and Two
- True “green lane” treatment with no or infrequent security inspections
- In case container is picked, it receives priority and moves in front of the exam line