Security seals may look like small accessories, but in logistics and global shipping, they’re the first line of defense against tampering, theft, and compliance failures. Whether you’re exporting through Indian ports, running a national fleet of trucks, or managing warehouse operations, the right seal can mean the difference between a smooth delivery and costly disruption.

In this guide, we’ll break down what security seals are, their types, industry use cases, regulations, and how procurement professionals can choose the right supplier in 2025.

What Are Security Seals and Why Are They Used?

Definition of a Security Seal (in simple terms)

A security seal is a locking device, usually single-use, that secures containers, trucks, or packages while providing visible proof of tampering. They don’t replace locks but act as an additional barrier and audit trail for goods in transit.

Primary purposes: tamper evidence, theft prevention, compliance

• Tamper evidence: Once broken, seals cannot be reapplied without clear damage.
  
  

• Theft prevention: A simple deterrent against pilferage during transport.
  
  

• Compliance: Many customs and regulatory bodies, including India’s CBIC, mandate approved seals for export shipments.
  
  

How seals support global shipping regulations

International trade relies on seal integrity. The ISO 17712 standard defines three levels of seals:

• I (Indicative) – Plastic or lightweight, show evidence of tampering.
  
  

• S (Security) – Stronger, often metal/plastic hybrids.
  
  

• H (High Security) – Independently tested, meet Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) and Indian Customs requirements.
  
  

Types of Security Seals You Need to Know

Plastic Seals – Lightweight, low-cost options

Widely used in retail, courier bags, and F&B. They’re cost-effective (₹7–₹25 per piece) but only offer indicative protection.

Bolt Seals – High-security, ISO-compliant container locks

The industry standard for ocean freight containers and trailers. Typically cost ₹15–₹75 per unit and must be ISO 17712:2013 “H” certified for international trade.

Cable Seals – Versatile, durable for shipping & trucking

Made of steel cable, ideal for trucks and intermodal shipping. More flexible than bolt seals, priced ₹25–₹60.

Metal Strap Seals – For heavy-duty cargo applications

Tin-plated or stainless-steel straps used in railcars and heavy cargo.

Electronic & Smart Seals – The Future of Cargo Security

Smart seals (RFID or GPS enabled) track shipments digitally. India’s mandatory e-sealing program for certain exporters is driving adoption.

Want a full breakdown of container seal types and uses? 👉 Read our upcoming blog: Container Seals Explained – Types, Uses, and How to Choose the Right One.

Most Commonly Used Security Seals in India

Industry trends – Which seals are most in demand

In India, bolt seals and cable seals dominate due to compliance requirements for exports and the need for theft prevention in trucking fleets.

Why bolt seals dominate in international shipping

Indian Customs mandates ISO 17712:2013 “H” class seals for export containers, making bolt seals the default choice for most freight forwarders and exporters.

Curious about price benchmarks? Don’t miss our blog: Container Seal Price Comparison – Which One Offers the Best Value?

Who Manufactures Security Seals in India?

Overview of top Indian manufacturers

India hosts a growing ecosystem of manufacturers including Raibex, Tetra Tekseal, Ekta Seals, Rajsons, and Sadguru Packaging. Many supply through platforms like IndiaMart and TradeIndia.

Key certifications buyers should check (ISO 17712:2013, C-TPAT, etc.)

Always demand:

• ISO 17712:2013 certification (especially for exports).
  
  

• BIS or international lab test reports.
  
  

• Serialisation and traceability.
  
  

What makes Conticare stand out as a trusted supplier

At Conticare, we combine global compliance, bulk supply reliability, and product variety (plastic, cable, bolt, and specialty seals) to support logistics, Pharma, E-commerce, and shipping companies.

Security Seals for Trucks & Trailers – What Fleet Owners Must Know

Why trucks & trailers need special seals

Unlike shipping containers, trailers make frequent stops—making them more vulnerable to theft and pilferage.

Best seal types for trucks (cable vs plastic vs bolt)

• Cable seals → flexibility for latch-style doors.
  
  

• Bolt seals → high-security long-haul trips.
  
  

• Plastic seals → local deliveries, low-value loads.
  
  

Pain points: poor fit, breakage, reusability confusion

Procurement managers often face complaints about seals breaking in transit or mismatched designs. Choosing the wrong type creates unnecessary loss.

Industry use cases (Retail, Pharma, E-commerce fleets)

Pharma fleets need compliance-grade seals, while retail/e-commerce fleets rely on high-volume plastic options.

Buyer’s checklist for truck security seals

• Match seal type to cargo risk.
  
  

• Ensure ISO/BIS-certified stock.
  
  

• Track seals with serialisation for audits.
  
  

Check out our full guide: Security Seals for Trucks & Trailers – Complete Buyer’s Guide.

How Security Seals Prevent Cargo Theft (Step by Step)

Real-world tampering scenarios

From bolt cutters on weak seals to swapped counterfeit seals, tampering often happens in transit.

Case study: How seals saved logistics losses

One Pharma exporter avoided a customs penalty when tampering was detected early thanks to serialised seals.

Seal tracking & digital monitoring

Smart e-seals and serialised codes help trace cargo at every checkpoint.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Security Seals

Buying cheap seals without certification

Fake or duplicate seals can lead to customs rejection and shipment impoundment.

Ignoring fit & compatibility with containers/trucks

Not all doors and locks are the same—always test before bulk purchase.

Not considering supply chain environment (humidity, long routes)

Poor-quality seals can fail in monsoon or high-humidity routes.

Read our deep dive: Why Cheap Container Seals Can Cost You More in Global Shipping.

Buyer’s Guide – Choosing the Best Security Seal Manufacturer in India

Key checklist for procurement teams

• ISO 17712:2013 certification.
  
  

• Consistent supply in bulk.
  
  

• Serialisation for audit trail.
  
  

Questions to ask before bulk ordering

• What certifications back your seals?
  
  

• Can you provide lab-test reports?
  
  

• Do you offer customisation (logos, barcodes)?
  
  

Balancing cost vs security

Lowest price ≠ best value. A failed seal can cause losses far higher than the cost saved.

Conclusion – The Future of Security Seals in Global Supply Chains

Security seals are no longer just “plastic tags.” In 2025, compliance, traceability, and theft prevention make them an essential investment for every supply chain.

Procurement and logistics leaders who prioritise quality, certification, and the right fit for their cargo will not only reduce risks but also improve operational efficiency.

👉 Conticare’s full range of ISO-certified security seals—trusted by India’s logistics and supply chain professionals.