Seal for Shipping Containers

We offer high-quality shipping container seals!

• securing transported goods is of great importance
• once the seal is closed, it cannot be opened
• the customs seal protects against tampering
• closing the seal does not require a great deal of force, just press
• the inside is made of quality steel, the outside is covered with plastic
• tensile strength of the crimp is approximately between 11KN – 16KN

Pricing and Transport Options

The price is per piece! Minimum order is 10 pieces. The price is per piece.

Shipping by transport service is available. The transport price depends on the ordered quantity and the specific country.

If interested, please send a request via the form below and we will send you a price quote for the transport. Please provide the delivery address so we can send a specific offer.

Always include in the request the phone number, country, city + postal code of delivery – so we can calculate the price of transport.
All information, services, prices, etc. may vary. The price list may be indicative, we always invoice based on the actual situation.

Always include the phone number so the carrier can contact you.

What is a Shipping Container Seal?

A shipping container seal is a specialized security device designed to lock and secure the doors of freight containers. These seals play a key role in ensuring the integrity and security of goods during transport. They are tamper-evident devices, meaning they cannot be removed without being damaged, which immediately signals unauthorized access or tampering.

Container seals are essential in international transport and serve several functions, such as cargo protection, compliance with customs regulations, and facilitating global trade. Each seal bears a unique serial number, recorded in transport documents, such as the Bill of Lading (BoL), for verification and accountability purposes.

The Importance of Container Seals

Container seals are indispensable in the global transport and logistics industry for several reasons:

1. Evidence of Unauthorized Tampering
   Container seals are designed to provide visible evidence of any tampering attempt. Once the seal is broken, it cannot be resealed, ensuring that the integrity of the cargo remains intact during transport.
2. Cargo Security
   Seals help protect goods from theft, damage, or unauthorized handling during transport.
3. Regulatory Compliance
   Many customs authorities around the world require containers to be fitted with tamper-evident 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 minimize the risk of containers being used for smuggling illegal goods, such as drugs, weapons, or contraband.
5. Verification and Accountability
   The unique serial number on the seal links the container to its transport documents, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain.

Types of Container Seals

Container seals are manufactured in different types, each suited to specific security needs. The most commonly used types include:

1. Bolt Seals
   • Description: Robust metal seals resistant to tampering.
   • Use: Ideal for high-security transport and international trade.
   • Features: Compliant with ISO 17712 standards; bolt cutters are required for removal.
2. Cable Seals
   • Description: Flexible and durable seals made from steel cable.
   • Use: Suitable for longer journeys and containers exposed to extreme conditions.
   • Features: Adjustable length, tamper resistance, and compliance with security standards.
3. Plastic Seals
   • Description: Lightweight seal made from durable plastic.
   • Use: Ideal for less sensitive goods and shorter transport routes.
   • Features: Cost-effective, but less durable than metal seals.
4. Metal Strap Seals
   • Description: Straps made of durable metal designed to detect unauthorized tampering.
   • Use: Commonly used for medium security levels.
   • Features: Tamper-evident, resistant to medium force.
5. Electronic Seals (E-Seals)
   • Description: Advanced seals equipped with RFID technology for real-time tracking.
   • Use: Best suited for high-security shipments requiring location monitoring.
   • Features: Remote verification, tamper detection, and faster customs clearance.
6. High-Security Seals (H grade)
   • Description: Seals made from materials that cannot be broken manually, such as metal cables.
   • Use: Required for compliance with ISO 17712 in situations demanding high security.
   • Features: Resistant to extreme tampering, require specialized tools for removal.

How to Use a Container Seal

Proper use of a container seal is essential for maintaining cargo security. Follow these steps:

1. Close the container doors
   First securely close the left door, then the right door.
2. Place the seal on the right door
   Insert the seal into the designated hole on the locking rod or handle of the right door.
3. Lock the seal
   Close the seal by snapping the components together (e.g., bolt seals) or by tightening the cable.
4. Record the seal number
   Verify that the serial number of the seal matches the entry in the transport documents.
5. Document the process
   Take photos of the sealed container for records and as evidence of proper sealing.

Placement of Seals on Containers

Standard practice dictates that seals should be placed on one of the locking rods of the right door, as it opens first. To enhance security, additional seals can be added to other locking rods or doors.

What to Do if a Seal is Damaged?

A damaged or tampered seal signals potential issues, such as:

1. Customs Inspection
   Customs officials may break the seal for inspection and replace it with a customs seal.
2. Theft or Tampering
   If the seal is damaged without any documentation, it may indicate cargo theft or unauthorized access.
   * Do not open the container.
   • Immediately inform the transport company, freight forwarder, and insurance company.
   • Document the condition with photos and report it to customs authorities.
3. Accidental Damage
   Any accidental damage to the seal must be reported for verification.

International Standards for Container Seals

Container seals must meet strict international standards, including:

1. ISO 17712
   • Defines strength classes: indicative (I), security (S), and high security (H).
   • High-security seals are recommended for international transport.
2. CTPAT Compliance
   • Shipments destined for the USA require high-security seals meeting CTPAT standards.
3. Tamper Evidence
   • Seals must clearly indicate tampering.
4. Unique Marking
   • Each seal must have a unique alphanumeric serial number.

How to Remove a Container Seal

Container seals are robust and specific tools are required for their removal:

1. Bolt Cutters
   • Used to cut bolt or cable seals.
2. Pliers
   • Suitable for removing lightweight plastic seals.

Safety Tip: When removing seals, wear gloves and protective goggles to prevent injury.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can a container have multiple seals?
   Yes, especially for shipments requiring high security.
2. What should I do if the seal number does not match the Bill of Lading?
   Immediately inform the transport company and document the discrepancy.
3. Are container seals reusable?
   No, they are single-use devices.
4. Do all seals comply with international standards?
   No, always verify compliance before transport.

The “shipping container seal” is a small but key component of global logistics. By ensuring cargo security, deterring theft, and complying with regulations, container seals are indispensable for the smooth movement of goods worldwide. Understanding their types, proper use, and established procedures is essential for protecting shipments and maintaining supply chain integrity.