Container Seal
A container seal is a uniquely numbered locking device fitted to the doors after stuffing to prove they were not opened in transit. The usual type is a high-security bolt seal under ISO 17712. The seal number is recorded on the shipping instruction, the B/L and the packing list. A mismatched number or damaged seal can trigger inspection, delays and claim disputes, so photograph the doors and seal when it is applied.
Related terms
- FCL (Full Container Load)
FCL means one shipper books a whole container, however much cargo is inside.
- Stuffing
Stuffing is loading goods into a container, either at the shipper's premises for FCL or at a CFS for LCL.
- Bill of Lading (B/L)
A bill of lading is the ocean transport document issued by the carrier or its agent.
- Container Check Digit
The check digit is the last digit of an ISO 6346 container number and catches typing errors.