High Security Seals USA Mandatory

The Government of the United States of America, have enacted laws that will be enforced by US Customs and Border Protection Agency, that all freight containers inbound to the USA by ship are required to have afixed:

High Security Seals
Meeting ISO PAS 17712 Standards

Effective October 15, 2008

This requirement includes all cargo bound for the USA, no matter whether the cargo is for USA final destination or the cargo is in transit to other countries.

As a participating carrier in the US Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism program (C-TPAT), OOCL’s high security seal policy has already been in place for many years for all US-inbound containers. Although this is not a new practice, we would like to remind you that the practice is now mandatory under C-TPAT.

This security initiative is aimed at improving cargo protection and increasing supply chain security. After securely stuffing and sealing your container, please ensure the seal number is provided on the shipping instructions forwarded to OOCL.

If a container is not affixed with a high security seal, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may issue a penalty. There is also a possibility US Coast Guard may detain the vessel. However, CBP recognizes that there are types of containers that cannot be readily secured by use of a high security seal, such as tanks, non-standard containers (for example open top containers), or containers that simply cannot accommodate such a seal. These types of containers are not subject to the statutory requirement.

Shippers, consignees, and cargo owners are responsible for ensuring their containers are sealed according to regulations, and if not, are liable for all costs incurred in case of any breach.

Willard Estate Logistics hold a stock of OOCL High Security Seals - please contact us if you require any.