CPS Management and Associates have undertaken numerous projects for manufacturing and warehouse/ distribution facilities, as well as a major project for one of
CPS provides consultancy and implementation management for end-to-end Supply Chain Management solutions, as well as C-TPAT (US Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) and AEO (EU Authorised Economic Operator) compliance audits and implementation projects.
C-TPAT and AEO Consulting Services
Loss of C-TPAT and AEO benefits can cause significant financial damage to a member company through containers being stopped on entry and inspected, causing delays in getting products to market; loss of competitive advantage; loss of reputation; and loss of existing and future customers whose own C-TPAT or AEO status would in turn be affected.CPS supports C-TPAT participant companies with their international Validations conducted by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Asia. We also provide the same services for companies requiring compliance with the EU's AEO Program.
A major challenge for Tier 1 participant companies concerns Validations of overseas Third Party Manufacturing/ Logistics (3PM/3PL) sites. Even large multinationals with dedicated global supply chain or global trade departments responsible for managing C-TPAT, AEO and general trade compliance are logistically challenged when it comes to being able to conduct their own internal audits of so many facilities around the world. Indeed, there are many cases when, despite all best efforts, a facility is selected by CBP for Validation that has not yet undergone an in-house Validation.
CPS’ services in relation to C-TPAT and AEO assessments, compliance planning, and Validation support include:
1. Conducting on the ground site assessments either independently or in relation to any Self-Assessment Questionnaires (SAQ) that might previously have been submitted;
2. Identifying security issues and/or shortfalls against the SAQ, updated CBP/EU requirements, and changes to the business that might have occurred since the SAQ was submitted;
3. Develop an Implementation Action Plan covering required improvements to physical, technical, procedural, and manned security elements, as well as housekeeping and fire/life safety issues;
4. Provide project management services and guiding the local team throughout the implementation period up until the Validation day;
5. Provide security and C-TPAT/AEO awareness training to local personnel as well as value-added extras as part of a new Security Management Program for the facility;
6. Assist to prepare a presentation for the day of the Validation; and coaching staff on delivery to the Customs Validation Teams;
7. Provide coaching to staff relating to the Validation day itself.
