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Gateway Logistics Group can now offer Port of Houston or Galveston TWIC ESCORT Services to Regional Port Facilities. The federal Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) became mandatory on April 14th, 2009.

 

UPDATE: 01/14/2010 *** Please note that “Gateway Logistics Does NOT Escort Truck Drivers into any Houston Port. We can escort Surveyors, Inspectors, Exporters, Importers, or Agents” For rates please contact us sales@gateway-group.com

The TWIC program aims to ensure that individuals who pose a threat do not gain unescorted access to secure areas of the nation's maritime transportation system. Beginning 14 April 2009, anyone needing unescorted access to secure areas of the Port of Houston Authority, as well as any federally regulated facility along the Houston Ship Channel, must either have a TWIC card or be escorted while on the property.

The purpose of the TWIC program is to increase security at U.S. seaports by providing a common identification credential for transportation workers. Anyone applying for a TWIC card must pass a threat assessment.

The TWIC is a “smart card,” which contains the worker’s name, photo and biometric information (fingerprint template). To obtain a TWIC, an individual must successfully pass a security threat assessment conducted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which looks at criminal background, immigrant status, terrorist watch list screening as well as mental capacity. It takes an average of 21 days from application to receive the credential.

If you have not received a TWIC card but have legitimate business at the Port of Houston Authority facility, then you may contact Gateway Logistics Group, Inc. to secure an Escort.   We now offer Escort services to Surveyors, Freight Forwarders, Insurance Representatives, or Export or Importers who need to examine cargo being loaded or unloaded at the port.

If you would like more information on this TWIC Escort service (including the per hour or day rates) please contact sales@gateway-group.com or phone the Houston Corporate office @ 281-443-7447. You may contact Mr. Mike Cuellar in the Houston Office. If he is not in please contact someone else in the sales or management teams.

A TWIC or TWIC ESCORT will be required for access throughout PHA’s Barbours Cut and Bayport container terminals. A TWIC or TWIC Escort will also be required for such access to the waterfront areas of PHA’s Turning Basin terminal (that is, all areas located on the waterfront side of the fence separating the upper and lower levels) and such other areas designated as “restricted” or “secured.”

The Coast Guard will conduct checks using handheld card readers to confirm the identity of TWIC holders and TWIC Escorts during regular inspections and unannounced spot checks. Individuals without a TWIC card or TWIC Escort will be subject to Civil or Criminal Penalties as determined by local authorities and Federal Regulations.