What is cargo sealing and why is it needed?

When it comes to cargo transportation, safety is the top priority. This is where sealing comes into play—a simple yet effective way to protect goods from unauthorized interference. What is it, why is it needed, and how does it work? Let’s break it down.

Who benefits from it?

Everyone involved in the safe delivery of cargo from point A to point B has a stake in this:

The sender wants to be sure that their goods will arrive intact and undamaged.
The carrier aims to avoid claims and unnecessary inspections.
The recipient expects to receive the cargo in the same condition it was sent in.

This is why it’s crucial to restrict access to the cargo during transportation. And this is where special devices—seals—come into play.

What is cargo sealing?

Sealing is the process of installing special devices that protect cargo from unauthorized access. If the seal is intact and undamaged, it means the contents are safe. This not only guarantees the safety of the goods but also speeds up the passage through customs checkpoints and inspection points. After all, if the seal is intact, inspectors don’t need to open the packaging or container.

What types of seals are there?

Modern seals are not just pieces of plastic or paper. They come in different types, each serving its own purpose:

Security seals: Equipped with blockers that physically restrict access to the cargo.
Indicator seals: Show whether a container or truck has been opened.
Numbered paper seals: A simple and budget-friendly option, often used for domestic transportation.
Electronic seals: Advanced devices that not only protect the cargo but can also track its location, record impacts, or monitor temperature changes.

How to properly seal cargo?

Sealing is not just a formality. There are specific rules:

The seal must be visible. It should be placed so that the information (number, owner’s details) can be easily read.
The data on the seal must match the information on the waybill. This is important for cargo identification.
The seal must be installed in such a way that it’s impossible to access the cargo without damaging it. If the seal cannot be read or is damaged, the cargo is not allowed for transportation.

How does it work in practice?

You can seal individual containers or entire trailers. For example:

For a container or truck, one seal on the doors is sufficient.
For a tanker, the valve of the drain hole is sealed.
If the cargo is transported in a truck bed covered with a tarp, seals are placed at the points where the tarp is attached to the sides.

Why is this important?

Sealing is not just a technical process. It’s a guarantee that the cargo will reach the recipient in the same condition it was sent in. It’s about trust between all parties involved and the confidence that everything is under control.

So, if you see a small seal on a container or truck, know this: behind it lies a lot of work to ensure the safety and security of the cargo.