U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced a partnership with Travel Sentry, Inc. as part of the Donations Acceptance Program. This collaboration will provide CBP officers at Ports of Entry nationwide with Travel Sentry Passkey sets and instructions on their use, without any cost to the government. These tools are intended to enable CBP officers to open and re-lock Travel Sentry compatible luggage locks during routine inspections.
"CBP is pleased to announce a partnership with Travel Sentry, Inc. This partnership will enhance efficiency for baggage inspections, contributing to CBP’s vision of enhancing the nation’s security through innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and trust," stated Diane J. Sabatino, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner, Office of Field Operations.
The use of Travel Sentry Passkeys is expected to streamline processing and reduce wait times for baggage inspections. Additionally, it aims to increase traveler satisfaction by preventing broken luggage locks and avoiding costly replacements.
John Vermilye, Chairman and Founder of Travel Sentry, Inc., commented on the initiative: "Travel Sentry exists to solve problems for the benefit of the traveling public. We are experienced airline professionals who know that luggage can and should be locked for your protection. We also know that CBP officers must sometimes open luggage to comply with legal requirements." He added that they are proud of their longstanding support for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and now extend this support to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
This initiative underscores a collaborative effort to tackle inspection challenges effectively. With over one billion Travel Sentry locks in circulation worldwide, the availability of these passkey sets will better equip CBP in its mission to ensure security while benefiting travelers.
Public-private partnerships like this one are crucial elements of CBP's Resource Optimization Strategy, allowing for new or expanded services at domestic ports of entry.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is recognized as America's frontline law enforcement organization and the world's first unified border management agency. The agency's 65,000+ personnel work on land, air, and sea to protect America while facilitating safe travel and trade.
For more information about this program or other initiatives by CBP, visit www.CBP.gov/DAP.
