The proper use of security seals can be, at the very least, a confusing endeavor. Depending on your industry and what you’re shipping, you may have requirements for which types of seals you need to purchase. You might think that once you have that part figured out, you’re home free! But not quite. It’s not enough to purchase the seals and simply start using them. It’s important to make sure you’re using your seals properly. Here are some best practices to keep in mind, to ensure you’re getting the most security out of your investment.

1. Make sure you’re ordering the correct seals.

What kinds of seals to order depends largely on what you’re shipping, and where. It’s best to check with any national, state, or local agencies you deal with, to make sure you’re adhering to any specific polices or rules that may apply. And you should always be able to call your security seal retailer for additional help in finding the right products.

2. Inspect the seals upon receipt.

When you receive them, check the order to make sure you received what you ordered, and that everything is there and in working order. Also double-check the numbers of the seals to ensure you’ve received the proper amount, and that they are numbered correctly.

3. Ensure integrity throughout the entire life cycle of the seal.

After receiving your seals and inspecting them, don’t forget there’s still more you need to do to be sure your seals are being used properly and remain tamper-safe. It’s advisable to keep detailed records of the numbers of all your seals and to record their use.

4. Keep your seals safe at all times.

Make sure that you store your security seals in a secure place, and give access only to responsible people. Keeping them under lock and key is a must. The more people who have access to your seals, the greater chances you face of them being tampered with.

5. Know how they work.

Don’t just assume that you know how to use the seals you’ve purchased – take some time to familiarize yourself with how they work, and what the different signs of tampering could look like. Be sure you also understand how to apply them and remove them properly.

6. Document the use of each seal carefully.

Keep detailed records of which seals you use and when you use them. Make sure you are using them in sequential order; this will help you spot tampering or theft sooner rather than later. Also make a note of which seals you are using for what purposes, and how the seals performed under each circumstance. This will help you determine if you’re using the right seals for the job at hand. If a particular type isn’t working well, switch to something new and see if that works better. Document your experiments to help you remember the results.

7. Be sure you’re using the seals as intended

Have you purchased the right kind of seals for the task at hand? Are you using them as they were intended? For example, maybe you’re using a plastic seal when the inventory is of such a sensitive nature that really you should be using a metal one. Are you using a disposable seal for a permanent application? It’s wise to review these points so you can make sure you’re on the right track.

8. Inspect your seals more than once.

Inspect your seals when you receive them, before you use them, when you have first applied them, and again at the intended destination. The more times you inspect the seal, the sooner you’ll be able to identify any tampering or theft, as well as spotting defective or otherwise broken seals.

9. For seals with longer term use, inspect them regularly.

If you’re using seals in situations that are needing more permanent security, be sure to check the integrity of the seals regularly. Nothing could be worse than realizing your seal has been tampered with or broken and not knowing how long it has been in that condition. Obviously, this could lead to losses of money or product for you – and your customers.

10. Keep good records.

Keep track of as many different aspects of your security seal usage as possible, including your complete inventory, how many you are using and how quickly, and how they are working. Also make note of how often your seals break, or how often they need to be unexpectedly removed from service. The more information you can track the better – and it’s all about keeping your cargo safe and sound.