U.S. Customs and Border Protection's oversight of the permit to transfer process for cargo containers

CBP is responsible for targeting and conducting cargo examinations on cargo destined to enter United States commerce. In 2009, approximately 9 million containers arrived in the United States. To manage the potential security threats presented by this large volume of maritime cargo, CBP employs a multi-layered approach, including analyzing and reviewing shipment information and targeting and inspecting high-risk cargo. CBP requires carriers to provide shipment information about the contents of their cargo containers to determine the level of risk associated with the cargo. CBP uses the Automated Targeting System (ATS) to review this information, which includes the country of origin, type of merchandise, and destination, to determine if the shipment poses a high risk to the United States and should be examined prior to release. CBP allows importers up to 15 days after the arrival of their shipment to provide additional shipping information.