For freight forwarders, navigating the complexities of customs procedures is a critical part of the job. Among the most commonly misunderstood terms are those related to customs seals—specifically, the differences between a Customs Envelope , Customs Lock , and Paper Seal . Misinterpreting these terms can lead to operational errors and delays. This article clarifies these concepts to ensure smooth logistics operations.
Customs Envelope
Contrary to what the name might suggest, a Customs Envelope is not a physical seal applied to goods. Instead, it refers to a specialized internal envelope used by customs authorities to securely transfer documents between departments. These envelopes are marked with the words "Customs Envelope" to ensure the safe and standardized handling of paperwork.
Customs Lock
A Customs Lock is a one-time-use metal seal applied to goods under customs supervision. These long, narrow strips are designed to prevent tampering—once secured, they cannot be reopened without breaking the seal, guaranteeing the integrity of the cargo.
Paper Seal
As the name implies, a Paper Seal is a paper-based closure used for smaller customs-supervised items. To ensure traceability, these seals typically include the name of the issuing customs office, along with the date of application (year, month, and day). This identifying mark is known as the Customs Seal Mark .
Resealing
In cases where customs authorities need to re-examine previously supervised goods, they may apply a new seal. This process, known as Resealing , does not indicate any issue with the original seal but is a standard part of customs oversight procedures.
Accurate understanding of these terms is essential for freight forwarders to avoid confusion and ensure compliance with customs regulations. By distinguishing between these seals and their specific uses, logistics professionals can streamline operations and minimize disruptions.