Security & Compliance

The threat of terrorism and heightened concerns regarding security are bringing about significant changes to international trade. "K" Line America gives a high priority to security and has traditionally supported industry and government efforts to improve supply chain security.

"K" Line America has been a long-time member of the Carrier Initiative Program (CIP) and moved quickly to become Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) certified and validated. In addition, we are a member of the World Shipping Council (WSC), a Washington, D.C.-based trade association representing more than 40 liner shipping companies. Through WSC, the liner industry has cooperated closely with the U.S. government to provide critical feedback and develop effective supply chain security initiatives.

"K" Line has developed a Global Security Team drawing members from key locations in Asia and Europe. We ensure high standards of operational security by reviewing and updating our security programs regularly and by working with our customers, intermodal transportation partners, marine terminals and ship managers to improve security awareness.

"K" Line is proud to participate and take an active role in combating terrorism by ensuring a more secure supply chain. We look forward to continuing to work with Customs, our customers and our service providers to ensure that practical and effective security methods are implemented.

International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS)

In December 2002, the United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted a comprehensive set of measures to enhance the security of ships and port facilities. These initiatives formed the foundation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS), which became effective in July 2004 and mainly consists of amendments to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention.

"K" Line's vessel fleet for liner, car and bulk services, as well as the terminals utilized, are in compliance with ISPS. For more information about ISPS, please refer to the IMO website.

Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT)

On July 22, 2002, "K" Line made a commitment to the U.S. Customs Service by signing the Agreement to Voluntarily Participate in the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism program.

"K" Line submitted its Executive Summary to U.S. Customs on September 24, 2002, describing its business operations and how they relate to CTPAT requirements. On November 15, 2002, U.S. Customs advised "K" Line that it had successfully completed the process and was considered a full CTPAT member. "K" Line also received the signed agreement from U.S. Customs.

Our official Customs Certification can be viewed on this website for confirmation of "K" Line's official partnership. In July 2004, "K" Line successfully completed its CTPAT validation.

In March 2006, after U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced revised sea carrier security criteria, we modified our CTPAT program and submitted all required security information through CBP's secure web portal in advance of the deadline.

While our detailed security procedures cannot be distributed because they contain proprietary information, you can be assured that "K" Line is committed to CTPAT security recommendations. We require the same awareness, commitment and participation from our partners and service providers as we continue working to enhance the integrity of supply-chain security procedures.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection advises that carriers should not compromise their security processes by providing detailed information to customers or other entities seeking background information. Importers or customers preparing CTPAT applications generally need only provide the carrier's name and confirm whether the carrier participates in the CTPAT program.

Therefore, "K" Line supports U.S. Customs and Border Protection's position and, as a matter of policy, cannot make public the security questionnaire submitted to U.S. Customs. We will also refrain from responding to security questionnaires or similar documents prepared by other organizations.

For more information regarding CTPAT:

U.S. Customs and Border Protection resources:

New Customer Screening

"K" Line has implemented a security-screening procedure for every first-time or previously unknown shipper for whom "K" Line will issue a Bill of Lading.

All first-time shippers will be asked to complete and return a "K" Line Customer Profile – New Shipper Questionnaire. The local "K" Line office, supported by members of "K" Line's Global Security Team, will evaluate and screen each new shipper. This screening process may be escalated or extended based on a dynamic risk-assessment model.

In cases where doubts regarding the legitimacy of a shipper cannot be resolved, bookings from that shipper will only be accepted subject to the following provisions:

  • The new shipper will be advised that the entire shipment must be surveyed at the port, at the shipper's expense, before loading.
  • Local Customs and U.S. Customs and Border Protection will be notified about the incomplete shipper verification and the pending shipment.