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In this article, we explore the flexibility and versatility of our flexiGrip range – a robust selection of metal cable security seals used across the globe. We’ll look at the key benefits of cable seals in securing goods, their wide-ranging applications, and the customisation options available to suit specific security needs.
What Are Cable Security Seals?
Cable seals, also known as wire rope seals, are tamper-evident devices designed to provide strong, flexible security. They are especially prevalent in freight, transport, logistics, food, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing sectors. Their primary function is to act as both a physical and visual deterrent to unauthorised access, while offering clear evidence if tampering occurs.
Each cable seal typically features a metal or plastic body with one end of a wire rope permanently fixed and the other inserted through a one-way locking mechanism. Made using non-preformed cable, the wire frays visibly when cut, making it impossible to reinsert undetected. This design ensures that once cut, any tampering is clearly evident.
Why Use Cable Seals?
Cable seals are commonly used to secure freight containers, lorries, rail wagons, drums, cages, and more. Their combination of strength and flexibility allows them to be tailored for everything from small-scale applications to large shipping containers. They are critical for maintaining product integrity and preventing theft during transit.
Choosing the Right Cable Thickness
Cable seals range from lightweight 1.5mm variants to heavy-duty 5mm options. Thinner cables offer flexibility and ease of use for smaller items, while thicker ones provide enhanced resistance to cutting and a greater visual deterrent – perfect for securing high-value assets and large cargo.
Cable Seals vs. Plastic Seals and Cable Ties
Cable seals offer significantly more strength than plastic pull-tight seals or standard cable ties. While strong plastic seals might withstand 50kg of force, even our lightest cable seals exceed that. Our heavy-duty models, such as the 325M and 500M, offer resistance that’s 20–50 times greater. They also require bolt cutters for removal, making them highly tamper-resistant.
By contrast, cable ties and standard plastic seals can often be easily bypassed or replaced, offering minimal deterrence and limited tamper evidence.
Security Classifications: Standard vs. High-Security
Our cable seals are certified to international standards, including ISO 17712. Seals like the flexiGrip 150M are HMRC-approved for customs use, while the 325M and 500M are classified as ISO 17712 ‘H’ High-Security Seals and are C-TPAT compliant – essential for international shipping and customs clearance.
Applications Across Industries
Cable seals are widely used in sectors such as:
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Logistics & Transport: Securing shipping containers, trailers, and freight.
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Food & Pharma: Maintaining hygiene, safety, and compliance in sealed deliveries.
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Energy & Utilities: Securing meters, valves, and control panels.
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Manufacturing: Protecting equipment and components.
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Retail & Wholesale: Preventing tampering in high-value stock and distribution centres.
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Government & Defence: Securing classified materials and sensitive assets.
Our flexiGrip Cable Seal Range
| Model | Cable Diameter | Load Resistance | ISO Classification | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| flexiGrip 100S | 1.5mm | 101kg | Indicative | Mail sacks, roll cages, drums, cash bags |
| flexiGrip 100/150ZP | 1.5mm | 259kg | Indicative | As above with extra durability |
| flexiGrip 180ZP | 1.8mm | 400kg | Indicative | Small industrial applications |
| flexiGrip 150M | 1.5mm | 256kg | Indicative | HMRC customs, valves, tankers |
| flexiGrip 250M | 2.5mm | 413kg | Security | Open barrels, industrial equipment |
| flexiGrip 325M | 3.25mm | 1193kg | High-Security | High-value freight, rail, customs |
| flexiGrip 500M | 5mm | 2039kg | High-Security | Heavy-duty security applications |
| flexiGrip 500MD | 5mm | 2039kg | High-Security | As above, with enhanced durability |
| StrapSecure | 1.5mm | 256kg | Indicative | Pallet and crate movements |
Customisation Options
We offer extensive customisation to meet your exact needs:
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Custom Cable Lengths: Long cables (e.g. 2 metres) for sealing valves or container locking bars.
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Cable Materials: Standard galvanised or marine-grade stainless steel for corrosion resistance.
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Engraving: Options include serial numbers, barcodes, QR codes, and multi-line prints.
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Colour Coding: 12 standard colours available for operational coding or categorisation.
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Counterpart Labelling: Duplicate labels for administrative tracking and reducing human error.
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ABS Encapsulation: Available for our heavy-duty models for added tamper resistance.
Why Choose Universeal?
At Universeal, we pride ourselves on offering dependable, compliant security solutions tailored to your industry and operational needs. Whether you're protecting high-value freight, meeting international customs standards, or managing domestic logistics, we’ll help you select the right seal.
Our flexiGrip cable seals provide the strength, flexibility, and traceability that today’s supply chains demand. Get in touch with our expert team today to find out more or request a sample.
For more information on How Do Cable Seals Work: A Guide to Cable Security Seals talk to Universeal (UK) Ltd