What is the role of tamper-evident seals in CTPAT?

• A. To identify the shipper
• B. To record shipment weight
• C. To track temperature
• D. To ensure container integrity and detect tampering during transit

Answer: (D)

Tamper-evident seals are used to maintain container integrity and detect tampering during transit. They are placed on container doors before shipment and are designed to show clear evidence if the seal has been broken, removed, or replaced. The seal’s unique number can be recorded and logged, so security teams can verify at every handoff or at arrival whether the container has been accessed since it was sealed. In CTPAT, this helps establish a reliable chain of custody and provides a readily observable cue that a container may have been tampered with, prompting inspection or follow-up if the seal is compromised.

This role is distinct from identifying the shipper, which relies on documents and labeling; from recording shipment weight, which depends on scales and manifests; and from tracking temperature, which uses temperature sensors and data loggers. The seal’s purpose is specifically to protect and reveal changes to the container itself during transit.