What Is a C-TPAT / Security Audit?
C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) is a voluntary supply-chain security programme run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). A C-TPAT / security audit is an independent assessment of a factory's security practices against the CBP Minimum Security Criteria (MSC) — verifying that goods cannot be tampered with, contaminated, or used to conceal contraband on their way to the United States.
It is a security-focused audit, distinct from a capability or social compliance audit, and is typically required by U.S. importers who participate in C-TPAT and expect their overseas suppliers to comply.
Who Needs It?
If your U.S. buyers are C-TPAT members, they may require their factories to demonstrate MSC compliance. Overseas manufacturers exporting to the United States use these audits to meet those requirements, reduce cargo-security risk, and stay eligible as a supplier.
What Does the Audit Cover?
- Physical security — Perimeter fencing, lighting, locking devices, and alarm/CCTV systems.
- Physical access controls — Employee, visitor, and vendor identification and access management.
- Personnel security — Pre-employment screening and background verification within legal limits.
- Procedural security — Documented procedures for receiving, handling, and shipping cargo.
- Cargo & conveyance security — Container and trailer inspection, and high-security seal controls.
- IT / cyber security — Password policies, system access controls, and data protection.
- Business-partner requirements — Security expectations extended to sub-contractors and service providers.
- Security training & threat awareness — Employee training on security procedures and reporting.
Reporting & Corrective Action
The audit documents compliance against each MSC category, identifies vulnerabilities with photographic evidence, and provides a corrective-action plan so gaps can be closed before they become a problem at the border. A follow-up visit is often used to verify remediation.
Why Use InspectionService.com?
Submit one request and receive competing quotes from experienced security-audit providers in your target country. Compare pricing, methodology, and auditor credentials — completely free for buyers, with no obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions
An assessment of a factory's supply-chain security — against unauthorised access, tampering, and contamination — aligned to the US Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) criteria.
US importers participating in C-TPAT, and their overseas suppliers, who must demonstrate the program's minimum security standards.
Physical security, access controls, personnel and procedural security, container and conveyance security, and information security.
It's a voluntary program, but membership brings benefits such as fewer exams and faster clearance — and members typically require their suppliers to meet the criteria.
It's priced per man-day. See our cost guide.