What is the role of Chain of Custody in container security?

• A. Temperature control data for shipments.
• B. Packaging design specifications.
• C. Insurance coverage for containers only.
• D. Documentation and procedures showing who handled the container and when, ensuring tamper-evident continuity.

Answer: (D)

Chain of custody in container security means keeping a documented trail of every person who handles the container and every movement it makes, with tamper-evident seals and time-stamped records. This ongoing, auditable record ensures the container’s integrity by letting security teams verify that no unauthorized access occurred, identify where a lapse happened, and support investigations if tampering or loss is suspected. It also acts as a strong deterrent because each handoff is recorded and can be verified. Other aspects like temperature control data, packaging design specifications, or insurance coverage deal with different risks or protections and do not establish or prove who handled the container or when, nor do they guarantee continuity of custody.