Customs checks goods as they cross a border. A seal shows whether a container, trailer or consignment has been opened along the way. Navacqs supplies:
high security seals to ISO/PAS 17712
tools to remove those seals during an inspection
packaging for taking samples
Sealing for cross-border transport
In international container shipping, the seal is the proof that the load has not been touched since loading. The seal number is listed on the transport documents. On arrival or at an inspection, that number is compared with the number on the container. A mismatch or a damaged seal leads to further investigation.
Under the transit procedure, for example a T1 movement, customs can also require the means of transport to be sealed. Companies with authorised consignor status may apply seals of an approved type themselves, subject to conditions. For TIR transport, customs seals the load compartment. On curtainsiders, this is done with a TIR cord.
Which seals comply?
ISO/PAS 17712 is the standard most widely used for containers and trailers in international transport. It defines three classes: I (indicative), S (security) and H (high security). For containers bound for the United States, the American C-TPAT programme requires a class H seal.
Navacqs supplies the following seals in this class:
Bolt seals, such as the Barrier Container Seal, the Neptune Container Seal and the Blocker LP-FT. A steel bolt with a barrel lock that can only be removed with a bolt cutter.
Cable seals, such as the Cable Seal 350 and 500. A braided steel cable that frays when cut, which also makes it suitable for tight or bent locking points.
The New Fork Seal, an adjustable container seal for export.
Removing seals during an inspection
A high security seal is designed so that it cannot be opened by hand, so an inspection calls for the right tools:
After the inspection, the container is fitted with a new seal and the new number is recorded.
Taking and sealing samples
During a check, customs may take samples, for example for laboratory testing. Glass and HDPE sample bottles suit liquids, while cotton bags work for powders and granules. A seal on the bottle or bag proves that the sample has not been tampered with in transit.
