Cargo security is crucial for maintaining an efficient and secure supply chain, protecting goods in transit from tampering, smuggling, and theft. The Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) program recognizes this need and established Minimum Security Criteria that prospective or partnered companies must follow to uphold international supply chain security. Seals are a critical part of this strategy, acting as a first line of defense to safeguard cargo once loaded and maintain its integrity throughout transportation. By properly sealing shipments, businesses can mitigate risks, preserve global trade integrity, and prevent security breaches, all while staying compliant with CTPAT’s Minimum Security Criteria.
A seal is a tamper-resistant device attached to a container or trailer to secure the goods inside and alert the cargo receiver if the container or trailer door has been opened since it was sealed at the cargo origin. To maintain CTPAT compliance, only high-security seals certified to meet ISO 17712:2013 requirements must be used. These seals offer the highest level of protection against tampering and unauthorized access. When purchasing seals, ensure they have passed lab tests confirming they meet the ISO 17712:2013 standard by requesting a Seal Certificate. CTPAT Members with seal inventories must document that the high-security seals they use meet or exceed the latest ISO 17712 standard.
The most commonly used seal is the bolt seal, though other seal types may be used if they meet the required security standards. Be sure all seals in use meet these standards.
Proper Seal Application and Verification
Only trained and authorized employees are permitted to apply seals to containers or trailers. Seals must be applied immediately after stuffing or loading, and an authorized supervisor must confirm that the seal is correctly applied and undamaged before releasing the cargo. CTPAT requires adherence to a seal verification process to ensure all high-security seals are properly affixed to containers or trailers and are functioning as intended. This procedure is known as the VVTT process:
If any irregularities are detected, they must be reported immediately, and a new seal must be applied before departure. These steps are essential for maintaining cargo security and ensuring compliance with CTPAT security protocols.
To prevent theft, tampering, or unauthorized use of seals, all unused seals must be securely stored in a locked area with limited access. Proper inventory control measures are essential to verify seals remain secure. Only trusted and authorized employees are to handle seal distribution, perform regular documented audits, and maintain a Seal Inventory Log that includes the results of these audits. Purchased or provided seals must also be logged into this inventory. When a seal is ready to be applied to a container or trailer, its details must be recorded in a Seal Log, which captures both the seal and shipment information for proper recordkeeping.
The Seal Log must be updated to include the following details when a seal is removed from inventory:
The Seal Log may be maintained electronically, but it must include all required information for compliance and auditing purposes. Keeping an accurate, up-to-date log certify transparency and accountability in the seal management process and supports CTPAT compliance.
Handling Seal Discrepancies
Any broken, damaged, or altered seals found in the company’s inventory must be documented and reported immediately. These discrepancies must be logged in the Seal Inventory Log, and the compromised seal must be removed from inventory. If a seal is broken in transit, even by government officials, a second seal must be applied. The seal change must then be documented on the bill of lading, in the Seal Log, and communicated to relevant parties
If a seal issue arises, the following steps must be taken:
Following these steps establishes that businesses maintain a high level of security and compliance with CTPAT Minimum Security Criteria. If a seal discrepancy cannot be resolved, it must be reported to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at https://www.cbp.gov/contact or via the Tip Line at 877-227-5511.
Proper seal procedures are essential for maintaining cargo security and ensuring compliance with CTPAT. By following strict application, verification, and inventory management protocols, businesses can protect their shipments from tampering and unauthorized access. A well-maintained Seal Inventory Log, Seal Log, and thorough auditing process not only safeguard cargo but also demonstrate a company’s commitment to supply chain security and CTPAT compliance. Your supply chain business partners will also appreciate these efforts.
If your company is interested in achieving CTPAT certification, Veroot is here to help guide you through the process. We can assist in implementing comprehensive CTPAT-compliant seal policies and forms tailored to your business needs. Our expertise helps ensure that your company not only meets but exceeds CTPAT’s security standards, giving you peace of mind knowing your supply chain is secure and compliant. Let us partner with you to streamline the certification process. For more information or to request a demo, visit Veroot's website at www.veroot.com/ctpat