What is a requirement for container integrity under CTPAT?

• A. Containers must be photographed at loading.
• B. Containers must be cross-checked with invoices.
• C. Containers must be protected from unauthorized material and persons.
• D. Containers require weekly inspections.

Answer: (C)

Container integrity in CTPAT centers on keeping the cargo secure from tampering and unauthorized access as it moves through the supply chain. The key requirement is to protect containers from unauthorized material and persons by using safeguards like tamper-evident seals, sturdy locking mechanisms, and controlled access to loading, storage, and transit points. This ensures that any attempt to open or alter the contents is detectable and prevents illicit interference with the cargo. The other options don’t address this core protection: photographing at loading is not a mandated container security control, cross-checking invoices relates to documentation rather than physical security of the container, and weekly inspections aren’t a standard requirement for maintaining container integrity in CTPAT.