Seal for shipping containers

What is a shipping container seal?

A shipping container seal is a special security device used to lock and secure shipping container doors. Seals play an important role in ensuring the integrity and security of goods during transport. They are tamper-resistant, meaning they cannot be removed without damage, which is an immediate indication of unauthorised access or tampering.

Container seals are essential in international shipping and perform a number of functions, such as protecting cargo, enforcing customs regulations and facilitating global trade. Each seal has a unique serial number that is entered into shipping documents, such as waybills, for control and reporting purposes.

Importance of container seals

Container seals are important in global shipping and logistics for a number of reasons:

1. Proof of tampering
   Container seals are designed to provide visible evidence of attempted counterfeiting. The seals are used to provide evidence of tampering. If a seal is tampered with, it cannot be resealed, ensuring the integrity of the cargo during transport.
2. Cargo security
   Seals help to protect goods against theft, damage or counterfeiting during transport.
3. Compliance with regulations
   Many customs authorities around the world require containers to be fitted with tamper-resistant seals to comply with international trade and security standards such as ISO 17712 or CTPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism).
4. Prevention of illegal activities
   Seals reduce the risk of containers being used to smuggle illegal goods such as drugs, weapons or contraband.
5. Authentication and liability
   A unique serial number on the seal links the container to the shipping documents, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain.

Types of container seals

There are different types of container seals, each suitable for specific security requirements. The most commonly used types are

1. screw seals
   • Description.
   • Application.
   • Features.
2. Cable clamps
   • Description.
   • Suitable for longer journeys and for containers in extreme conditions.
   • Features.
3. Plastic seals
   • Description.
   • Ideal for less sensitive goods and shorter transport distances.
   • Characteristics.
4. Less costly but less costly than smaller, less expensive metal tape seal.
   • Description.
   • Applications.
   • Features: tamper resistant, medium tamper resistance.
5. Electronic seals (e-seals).
   • Description: Advanced seals equipped with RFID technology for real-time tracking.
   • Ideally suited for highly secure shipments requiring on-site monitoring.
   • Features.
6. High-security seal (H class).
   • Description.
   • Application.
   • Characteristics.

How to use a container seal

Correct use of the container seal is essential for the safety of your goods. Follow these steps:

1. Close the container door.
   Close the container door securely. Close the container door securely.
2. Attach the seal to the right door.
   Insert the seal into the hole indicated on the locking latch or right door handle.
3. Lock the seal
   Close the gasket by clicking the components together (e.g. screw gaskets) or tightening the cable.
4. Mark the seal number
   Check that the seal serial number corresponds to the information in the shipping documents.
5. Document the process
   Take a picture of the sealed container to document and prove proper sealing.

Installing seals on containers

It is standard practice to place seals on one of the locking bars of the right-hand door, as this is the first to be opened. Additional seals may be placed on other locking bars or doors to increase security.

What to do if the seal is broken?

A damaged or broken seal indicates possible problems, such as

1. Inspection by customs
   Customs can open the seal for inspection and replace it with a customs seal.
2. theft or counterfeiting
   If the Customs seal is broken without being properly documented, this may be an indication of theft or unauthorised access to the goods.
   • Do not open the container.
   • Notify the shipping company, freight forwarder and insurance company immediately.
   • Document the condition with photographs and report it to customs.
3. Accidental damage
   Any accidental damage to the seal must be reported for inspection.

International standards for container seals

Container seals must meet strict international standards, including the following

1. ISO 17712
   • Defines strength classes: Recommended (I), Secure (S) and High Security (H).
   • High security seals are recommended for international transport.
2. Compliance with CTPAT
   • High security seals meeting CTPAT standards are required for shipments destined for the United States.
3. Evidence of counterfeiting
   • Seals must bear a clear indication of falsification.
4. Clear marking
   • Each seal must be marked with a unique alphanumeric serial number.

How to remove a container seal

Container seals are durable and require special tools to remove:

1. Hackers
   • These are used to cut screw or cable gaskets.
2. Pliers
   • Suitable for removing light plastic gaskets.

Safety advice: wear gloves and safety goggles when removing gaskets to avoid injury.

Wear safety equipment to protect yourself and prevent injury.

1. Can a container have more than one seal?
   Yes, especially for shipments that require a high level of security.
2. What should I do if the seal number does not match the waybill?
   Notify the shipping company immediately and document the discrepancy.
3. Can container seals be reused?
   No, they are single-use seals.
4. Do all seals comply with international standards?
   No, always check that they comply with the standards before shipping. “Sealing shipping containers is asmall but important part of global logistics. By ensuring cargo security, preventing theft and complying with legal regulations, container seals are essential for the smooth transport of goods around the world. Understanding their types, their proper use and best practices is essential to protecting shipments and maintaining supply chain integrity.