Security Seals relevance to C-TPAT compliance in a nutshell.

Today’s global market place dictates that suppliers, vendors and service providers to the United States conform to current supply chain security policies. One of the programs of specific relevance to all those involved in shipping to the U.S., is the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT). C-TPAT is a government program run by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) bureau. The CBP have indicated that failing to comply with C-TPAT could result in delayed shipments and additional audits.

C-TPAT states that “…a high security seal must be affixed to all loaded containers bound for the U.S. and all seals must meet or exceed the current ISO 17712 standards for high security seals.” The current ISO standard for high security seals is “ISO 17712:2013 high security seals”. ISO 17712:2013 high security seals came into effect on 15 May 2014. C-TPAT Partners, however, may continue to use the remaining ISO 17712:2010 high security seals they have in stock and then look to purchase ISO 17712:2013 high security seals in the future.

Bolt Security Seals and Cable Security Seal models are eligible for High Security Seal classification. Bolt Security seals that comply to ISO 17712:2013 have an “H” mark on the locking body and bolt. This is one of the characteristics an ISO 17712:2013 high security seal must possess in addition to others such as being strong and durable against weather, chemical action and tampering. ISO 17712:2013 testing must be conducted by a correctly accredited independent third party test laboratory according to ISO procedures, such as ISO 17025.

Harcor support companies shipping to the U.S by stocking a range of High Security Bolt and Cable Seals that fully comply with C-TPAT as they have been ISO 17712:2013 high security seal certified. In addition to our stock range of C-TPAT compliant Security Seals, that can be viewed via this link, Harcor are able to supply customers with alternative C-TPAT compliant security seals tailored to suit specific applications. Please contact us if you require information on any cargo security matters.