C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) and FAST (Free and Secure Trade) are partnerships between the Canada Border Services Agency & United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and various parts of our economic supply chain, including the trucking industry, to ensure security and expedite legitimate trade.

A lot of what we focus on, at least from a driver’s perspective, is outside risks. Drivers need to be vigilant and inspect their vehicle and report any tampering or unusual activity. An important part, the most important part, of securing the supply chain from threats are people.

New drivers coming on with Len Dubois Trucking have background checks and criminal record checks. Drivers are required to be or apply to be FAST approved. Not only do want drivers with a great attitude to service our clients, we need drivers who are “low risk.”

“FAST (Free and Secure Trade) is a joint initiative between the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection that enhances border and trade chain security while making cross-border commercial shipments simpler and subject to fewer delays.” http://www.cbsa.gc.ca/prog/fast-expres/menu-eng.html

The FAST program allows the CBSA to work with the private sector to combat organized crime, terrorism and smuggling. Participants (carriers, drivers, and importers) undergo risk assessments and, if FAST approved, are considered Low Risk. This allows the CBSA to focus on higher or unknown risks. This makes border crossing easier and faster.

To qualify for FAST you must:

  • be a citizen or permanent resident of Canada or the United States
  • reside in Canada or the United States
  • 18 years old or over
  • possess a valid driver’s license
  • be admissible to Canada and the United States under applicable immigration laws
  • not have been convicted of a criminal offense in any country for which you have not received a pardon
  • Not been found in violation of customs or immigration law

You must be approved by both the US and Canada. Details about the FAST program are here. http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/fast-expres/driv-chauff-eng.html

Len Dubois Trucking is a Winnipeg trucking company and we have great owner operator opportunities available. To find out more about us check out our Drivers Testimonials, Drivers and Owner Operator pages. See us in action and join us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.