# Customs seal

*Last updated: 2026-06-22*

> Unlike a commercial security seal, a customs seal is an official security device—typically a single-use plastic or metal fastener—affixed by customs authorities to containers, truck bodies or storage compartments to make any unauthorized access to the cargo immediately and verifiably apparent.

Unlike a commercial security seal, a customs seal is an official security device—typically a single-use plastic or metal fastener—affixed by customs authorities to containers, truck bodies or storage compartments to make any unauthorized access to the cargo immediately and verifiably apparent. Each seal bears a unique identification number and is designed so that it cannot be opened without obvious physical damage. In customs-supervised transit—such as under the Common Transit Procedure—an intact seal at destination serves as evidence that the quantity and condition of the goods have not changed since departure. A missing or broken seal triggers a mandatory inspection and may result in additional duty assessments and fines. Freight forwarders are required to record the seal's condition at both collection and delivery.

**Source:** [https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transit_(Zollverfahren)](https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transit_(Zollverfahren))

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Customs seal |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 122 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-22 |
| Source | https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transit_(Zollverfahren) |

---

*Logistics Glossary — Freight Academy: [https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/customs-seal-2](https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/customs-seal-2)*

*Markdown mirror: [https://www.freight-academy.com/api/md/glossary/en/customs-seal-2](https://www.freight-academy.com/api/md/glossary/en/customs-seal-2)*

*JSON summary: [https://www.freight-academy.com/api/v1/glossary/customs-seal-2/llm-summary?lang=en](https://www.freight-academy.com/api/v1/glossary/customs-seal-2/llm-summary?lang=en)*