Sealing of goods in road transport

The importance of sealing goods during road transport

The sealing of goods during road transport plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and integrity of the goods being transported. By applying the proper sealing measures, transport companies and stakeholders can comply with the security standards required to protect cargo in transit. Sealing cargo is not just a formality, but a crucial step in the transport process that involves placing seals to prevent unauthorised access to the goods. Once the seal is placed, the carrier assumes full responsibility for the cargo until it is delivered, emphasising the importance of maintaining the integrity of the seal throughout the journey. This practice serves as a control tool to monitor and detect any potential tampering or unauthorised access to the shipment, thereby protecting the products from the risks associated with theft and tampering.

Compliance with regulations and standards is another key reason why sealing is a must for road transport. Strict adherence to the established rules and guidelines for sealing cargo ensures that the transport process complies with legal requirements and industry standards. Usually, the responsibility for sealing vehicles and containers lies with the shipper, which underlines the shipper's interest in the safety and security of the transported cargo. Although the rules for sealing cargo may not apply directly to truck drivers, understanding and complying with these rules can help all parties involved in the transport process reduce potential risks and liabilities. By following established sealing procedures, transport companies demonstrate their commitment to maintaining the integrity of the cargo and adhering to industry regulations, which ultimately increases the overall safety of the transport process.

Preventing theft and tampering is the most important aspect of the practice of sealing cargo during road transport. Cargo sealing serves as a deterrent to unauthorised access to the goods being transported, thereby reducing the risk of theft and tampering during transport. Customers of transport organizations are usually responsible for sealing their cargo, which underscores their personal interest in ensuring the safety and security of the transported products. The use of seals effectively blocks access to the goods being transported, serving as a visible sign of any potential tampering or attempted tampering. In addition to preventing theft, sealing cargo also helps to preserve the authenticity and integrity of the goods, reducing the likelihood of counterfeiting and unauthorised alterations. This preventive measure helps to protect cargo from external threats and ensures that products reach their destination safely and in their original condition, which underscores the importance of sealing cargo during road transport.

Types of cargo seals commonly used in road transport

Bolted seals: One of the most common types of cargo seals used in road transport is the bolt seal. Bolt seals are widely used to secure goods in containers and trailers during transport. These seals consist of a metal bolt and a locking mechanism that provide a high level of security and prevent unauthorized access to the cargo. Bolt seals usually have a unique serial number or barcode for easy identification and traceability. Their robust design and tamper-proof features make them suitable for international road transport of valuable or sensitive goods, ensuring the integrity of the cargo throughout the journey.

Cable seals: Cable seals are another common option for sealing goods during road transport. These seals are commonly used to protect valuable goods in intermodal containers, trailers and truck doors. Cable seals are flexible and versatile, allowing them to securely fasten various types of freight containers. They are designed to protect against unauthorized access and provide a visible indication of seal breaking. Due to their durability and ease of use, cable seals are an effective solution for protecting goods in transit, especially when strict security measures are required.

Plastic seals: Plastic seals are a practical and economical choice for sealing goods during road transport. These seals are available in a variety of forms, including rotating seals and numbered indicator seals, providing versatility depending on the specific security requirements of the shipment. Plastic seals are lightweight, easy to use and provide visual protection against unauthorized access. They are commonly used for access control and security in the transport industry. Plastic seals, along with other types of cargo seals, play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and integrity of goods during transport, which underlines the importance of good sealing practices in road transport.

Best practices for effective cargo sealing

The correct application and verification of seals are important aspects of effective sealing of goods during road transport. When sealing a shipment, it is crucial to ensure that the seals are applied correctly and securely to avoid tampering or unauthorized access. This process includes: 

• Using high quality seals that are tamper-proof and difficult to reproduce. 
• Checking the integrity of the seals before loading the cargo onto the vehicle 
• Conducting regular checks during transport for any signs of tampering or damage to the seals. 
• Implementing additional security measures, such as GPS tracking or surveillance cameras, to monitor the cargo in real time. 

By following these best practices for applying and checking seals, companies can improve the security of their cargo and minimize the risk of theft or tampering during transport.

Documentation and record-keeping play a crucial role in the effective sealing of goods during road transport. Proper documentation ensures transparency and accountability throughout the entire delivery process, enabling:

• Accurate tracking of cargo from point of origin to destination. 
• Checking the contents and condition of cargo at every stage of transportation 
• Compliance with regulatory requirements and international standards. 
• Facilitate customs clearance and border crossing. 

In addition, electronic seals and devices can provide real-time monitoring of cargo movement, increasing the safety and efficiency of the transport process. By keeping detailed records and using modern technology for sealing cargo, companies can streamline operations and ensure that goods reach their destinations safely and on time.

Training of personnel involved in sealing and loading and unloading operations is essential to maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency in road transport. Proper training ensures that employees have the necessary knowledge and skills to: 

• Securely apply seals to loads and vehicles. 
• Conduct a thorough inspection for signs of tampering or damage. 
• Handle and transport cargo in a safe and responsible manner. 
• Respond effectively to security incidents or breaches. 

Training programmes should cover cargo security, health and safety, and regulatory compliance to ensure that staff are well prepared to handle a variety of scenarios during transport. By investing in employee training and development, companies can improve their cargo sealing practices and ensure the integrity of their supply chain.