GSV consulting and training

What is Global Security Verification (GSV)?

Global Security Verification (GSV) is an Intertek supply chain security assessment programme. The original article describes its development with Sandler & Travis Trade Advisory Services (STTAS) to help businesses identify and reduce risks in international cargo movements.

The programme combines customs and security expertise, local site assessments and information management to identify weaknesses in a supply chain. This description concerns the GSV assessment programme; ITVC’s role is consulting and training to help clients prepare.

Assessment findings provide a basis for security improvements that support efficient operations and the applicable customer and supply chain security requirements.

GSV programme logo from the original article

GSV assessments address a range of security issues relevant to a business, including:

• Identifying security weaknesses at suppliers and reducing risks in international cargo movements.
• Developing security programmes suited to the organisation and its destination markets.
• Reviewing overseas suppliers’ security procedures, practices and the effectiveness of key controls.
• Comparing supplier security practices with applicable government or industry requirements.
• Assessing risks and management arrangements across the supply chain.
• Providing security awareness and skills training for overseas suppliers.
• Reporting security findings and the improvements needed to address customer-specific requirements.
• Using information systems to access and manage assessment information.

Intertek - Global Security Verification

Potential benefits of GSV

GSV takes a structured approach to security assessment through reports, consistent data collection and scoring, improvement actions and training.

A consistent assessment approach

The historical programme description refers to independent, standardised data collection and analysis, using tools developed with STTAS customs expertise.

Cost control and information sharing

A factory may arrange an assessment and, subject to the applicable programme and customer rules, share its report with multiple customers. This can help reduce duplicated assessments and associated costs.

Customer acceptance

The programme draws on supply chain security requirements, including C-TPAT-related criteria. Acceptance of a GSV report depends on the customer; it does not automatically grant CBP C-TPAT membership or customs privileges.

GSV assessment topics

The original article groups GSV assessment content into the following nine areas. Confirm the current checklist and customer scope before preparing for an assessment:

1. Records and documentation
2. Personnel security
3. Physical security
4. Information access controls
5. Shipment information controls
6. Storage and distribution
7. Contractor controls
8. Export logistics
9. Supply chain transparency

GSV consulting and training services

ITVC Global helps clients establish and apply security management practices relevant to GSV through the following services:

• Consulting on establishing and implementing GSV security management practices
• Awareness training and interpretation of GSV requirements
• Training in internal GSV assessment skills

GSV integrates supply chain security initiatives such as C-TPAT, PIP and AEO. ITVC supports preparation of practices and records; outcomes are assessed under the applicable programme and customer requirements.