Customs and Border Protection Border Patrol Agent (CBP BPA) Practice Exam

Officers primarily examine merchandise to detect violations and prevent terrorists' entry because this is a critical aspect of ensuring national security and enforcing immigration laws. By examining merchandise, officers can identify potential risks, including illegal goods or threats that could compromise safety and security.

This role extends beyond mere commerce; it encompasses the protection of the homeland from criminal activities and terrorism. Therefore, the focus on detecting violations aligns with the broader mission of the Customs and Border Protection agency to facilitate lawful trade while safeguarding against individuals or items that pose a threat.

The other considerations, such as timely processing, categorization for import duties, and collection of transportation fees, are relevant in their own contexts but are secondary to the primary mandate of ensuring national safety through the identification of potential violations and threats.