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What is a CTCS (Certified Trade Compliance Specialist) designation?

CTCS folks

What is a CTCS designation?

The Certified Trade Compliance Specialist (CTCS) designation recognizes the experience and expertise of international trade compliance professionals, 
sets a standard for ongoing professional development in a field where change is constant, supports a network for information sharing and collaboration.

Trade compliance refers to the process of ensuring that all legislative, regulatory, and other requirements related to the import and export of commercial shipments are fully met.
 

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Become a CTCS

To become a CTCS, an individual must:

  • have at least 3 years of experience in a trade compliance environment, or be a current CCS designate who completed the Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) course with a minimum score of 70%, and
  • successfully complete the CTCS program of study.
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Maintenance of CTCS Designation

Certified Trade Compliance Specialists (CTCS) must uphold their designation by engaging in and documenting professional development activities over a three-year cycle, along with paying an annual fee. This process ensures that CTCS professionals remain current with evolving trade policies, administrative programs, and the dynamic landscape of trade compliance.
 

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Benefits of holding a CTCS designation

NEW! Discount on Career Consultation

A 15% discount on career consultation through industry experts at Buckley Search Inc.

Timely Information

CSCB Article Digest, a daily email covering technical, operational and educational information you need to guarantee the quality of service that will be expected from those with the CTCS designation.

Promotion

Promotion of CTCS designation as the standard of trade compliance expertise.

Designate Days

Exclusive access to Designate Day learning opportunities twice per year.

CTCS Designator

Use of CTCS designator in your professional identifiers.

NEW! Discount on Customs Publications

A 15% discount on select Thomson Reuters Customs Publications.

Free Course

Free CTCS module, CCS Course: Designate Version, or Micro-course once every 3 years to keep your knowledge current.
 

Employment opportunities

Access to employment opportunities page featuring jobs posted by Canadian customs broker firms and others involved in international trade.

Professional Development at a discount

Preferential registration fees for CSCB events and courses.

Group insurance

Group home and auto insurance at preferred rates.

Questions and Comments

Questions and comments maybe be directed to [email protected].