Most Read
Most E-mailed
E-mail Article
Print ArticleRisk management and ISF resources
New developments in technology have sought to decrease the effort needed to maintain and monitor international supply chains. One program shippers should become aware of is C-TPAT Connection Inc., a group that offers assistance in both securing the supply chain while collecting the much needed data for 10+2 or ISF filing.
C-TPAT Connection Inc. offers corporations the ability to collect supply chain security data on business partners worldwide and give shippers an immediate feedback mechanism regarding their "risk" as a business partner for meeting C-TPAT and FAST guidelines. The difference between this program and related programs is its ability to capture data in six different languages, making worldwide partners more capable of providing information and remaining engaged for long-term security improvements.
In short, this group allows participants to email questionnaires to their business partners around the world. Responses are translated back into the sender's language and an immediate risk assessment is provided, mirroring the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) color security rating now in effect in the United States. In addition, the program captures ISF filing data and allows users to download the information into spreadsheets for sharing with ISF filers (www.c-tpatconnection.com ).
Anti-piracy protection
For companies moving product in international waters preyed upon by pirates, the newly introduced SEAL Security Solutions, a Houston-based firm managed by a team of former marines, logistics professionals, and former military personnel, offers corporations cost-effective programs to prevent merchandise from being stolen in route.
SEAL has formed an alliance with the Sharaf Shipping Agency, a Dubai-based group that specializes in arranging for the movement of supplies to and from vessels. Together, these two firms provide vessel owners and shippers a highly trained security team comprised of people and assault dogs to provide around-the-clock observation with advanced optics and technology. With a 24/7 patrol team on deck and a tactical leader with radio communication, they aim to prevent pirates from boarding a vessel.
