Security Seals for Known Consignor and SPX Air Cargo

Air cargo typically passes through multiple hands before it reaches an aircraft, often across different sites, operators and stages of transport. To manage risk and maintain security without unnecessary delay, aviation relies on agreed standards that set out how cargo is prepared, handled and protected throughout the supply chain. These standards are designed to balance security requirements with the practical realities of time-critical transport.

In the UK, the Department for Transport sets the overall security framework for air cargo, and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) oversees aviation security compliance, including the Known Consignor (KC) Scheme. The KC scheme forms part of the UK’s secure supply chain approach, allowing authorised and audited organisations to apply approved in-house measures for the secure preparation of consignments destined for air transport. When the correct controls and documentation are in place, this can reduce delays by allowing cargo to be treated as “known” within the secure supply chain.

Once cargo enters the secure supply chain, its security condition still needs to be maintained and communicated at every handover. This is where security status codes come in. SPX is one such code used in air cargo to indicate that a consignment is treated as secure for carriage (including, where permitted, for passenger, all-cargo and all-mail aircraft). Related statuses you may also see include SCO (secure for all-cargo/all-mail aircraft only) and SHR (secure under high-risk requirements). In practice, SPX may apply where cargo has been secured within an approved supply chain, for example prepared by a Known Consignor and kept protected, and/or screened by an authorised cargo screening entity. The SPX code helps indicate that the consignment may not need additional screening at cargo agent premises, provided protection and documentation remain intact.

Security statuses are typically recorded in cargo security paperwork such as a Consignment Security Declaration (CSD). SPX is a security status code, not a description of the goods themselves, which is why understanding what SPX means is important for any business involved in air freight where responsibility is shared across multiple parties.

Key takeaways

SPX is a security status code showing that cargo is treated as secure within the air cargo supply chain, for example because it originates from a Known Consignor and remains protected, and/or because it has been screened. This can help cargo avoid additional screening at cargo agent premises, provided security and documentation remain intact.

Security seals help maintain the integrity of SPX consignments by providing tamper-evident protection and supporting accountability throughout transport.

Known Consignor approval involves thorough assessment and ongoing compliance to ensure security is maintained from preparation at source through to handover and acceptance.

Correct handling, documentation and seal verification by regulated agents and airlines are essential to preserve SPX status and keep cargo moving efficiently.

Known Consignor status and approval

An application to become a Known Consignor is usually followed by an on-site assessment carried out by an accredited validator. If approved, the business is issued an approval reference or identifier, which is then used in cargo security documentation and handover processes. Further information is available from the Civil Aviation Authority.

Known Consignor approval is not simply a paperwork exercise. The process looks closely at how cargo is packed, where it is stored, who can access it and how security is maintained over time, not just at despatch.

Staff involved in handling air cargo must meet the relevant requirements, which can include background checks, documented training and clear access rules for goods and secure areas. Once approval is granted, Known Consignor status must be maintained through ongoing compliance, record keeping and readiness for future inspections or audits.

SPX cargo within the supply chain

SPX cargo sits within a wider supply chain that includes the Known Consignor, the regulated agent, transport providers and, ultimately, the airline. Each handover introduces risk unless responsibilities and controls are clearly understood and consistently applied.

A regulated agent is authorised to handle cargo on behalf of airlines and plays a key role in maintaining security during acceptance, handling, consolidation and storage. This becomes especially important when cargo moves between locations before reaching the airport.

If security is broken at any point, through unauthorised access, missing documents, damaged packaging or failed protection checks, SPX status can be lost. When this happens, cargo may need to be re-screened, delayed or rejected, which quickly becomes costly and disruptive.

Why security seals matter for known cargo

Security seals support both shippers and logistics operators by providing tamper-evident protection and traceability. Indicative seals, such as non-residue security labels, and barrier seals, such as cable seals, can be used to secure access points. When seals are uniquely numbered and recorded on handover paperwork, they also strengthen accountability.

Seals are a simple but effective control. They make interference visible, create a clear audit trail and allow regulated agents and airlines to check protection without opening packages unnecessarily.

For SPX cargo in particular, seals help ensure that what was packed at source is what arrives at the airport, in the same condition, with no unexplained access along the route.

A practical example

Consider a courier transporting safety-critical aircraft parts between suppliers and an airport cargo facility. If the goods originate from a Known Consignor, consignments can be loaded at the supplier’s premises and sealed, for example by applying a security label across the van door seams to confirm authorised loading. The shipment can then be delivered to the regulated agent or airline facility without re-screening, provided security is maintained and documentation is correct.

If the supplier is not a Known Consignor, the consignment may need to be presented to an authorised screening facility for X-ray screening or another approved method. Once screened, it can be sealed and transported in the same way.

This is why SPX status matters. Where goods are prepared, protected, sealed and documented correctly at source, they can move through the system with fewer interruptions, which is critical for time-sensitive freight and high-value items.

Seal checks and ongoing compliance

Seals may be checked by the regulated agent and/or carrier during acceptance and handling as part of protection checks. Airlines and regulated agents will typically confirm that seals are intact, match the recorded numbers and show no signs of interference.

If a seal fails these checks, the consignment may lose SPX status regardless of how well earlier stages were managed. Accurate records and correct sealing methods are therefore as important as the seal type itself.

Security seal options for SPX cargo

Indicative plastic seals for trailers, cable seals for air cargo containers and security labels for vans can all support known cargo and SPX movements. Short lead times and bespoke options are available, including logo printing, sequential numbering, barcoding and other security features.

Different transport methods place different demands on sealing. Vans, trailers, containers and unit load devices each need a seal that suits how cargo is loaded, accessed and checked.

Customisation supports traceability across the supply chain and reinforces responsibility at every stage.

Supporting secure, efficient air cargo movement

Security seals can seem like a small detail, but within the SPX framework they play an important role in protecting cargo, maintaining compliance and helping goods move through regulated environments without unnecessary disruption. Used properly, they support both security and efficiency without adding complexity.

Why choose Universeal?

When handling known cargo and SPX consignments, security measures need to work in real transport conditions, not just on paper. Our security seals are designed for day-to-day operations where goods are loaded, checked and moved through multiple hands.

We supply seals for vans, trailers and air cargo containers, with short lead times and custom options such as sequential numbering or barcoding to support traceability and compliance.

Because we work with Known Consignors, regulated agents and transport providers, we can advise on seal solutions that help protect cargo, maintain SPX status and reduce disruption at the airport. We keep the process straightforward, with practical guidance from people who understand the requirements.

To discuss your requirements, contact us on 01829 760000 or email sales@universeal.co.uk.

Summary

SPX cargo and Known Consignor status depend on consistency, accountability and the ability to demonstrate that security has been maintained at every stage. From preparation at source through to acceptance and loading at the airport, the process relies on clear procedures, reliable controls and practical measures that stand up to real-world transport.

Security seals support this framework by providing tamper-evident protection and traceability. When selected, applied and checked correctly, they help protect cargo, preserve SPX status and reduce avoidable delays. Combined with accurate documentation and clear responsibilities across the supply chain, they contribute to safer, more efficient air cargo movement.

Frequently asked questions

What does SPX cargo mean in air freight?
SPX is a security status used in aviation to show that cargo is treated as secure earlier in the supply chain. This may be because it has been prepared by a Known Consignor and kept protected, and/or screened by an authorised entity. It can allow cargo to move towards the aircraft without additional screening at the cargo agent, provided protection and documentation remain intact.

What does SPX stand for in aviation cargo codes?
SPX is a standard air cargo security status code. It does not describe the goods being shipped. It indicates the security treatment applied to the consignment and the controls used to protect it during handling and transport.

How does SPX cargo differ from other air cargo?
SPX cargo may be accepted as secure without further screening at the cargo agent premises, provided its security status can be verified and protection has been maintained.

Why are security seals important for SPX cargo?
Seals provide visible evidence that cargo has not been accessed or interfered with during transport. They allow regulated agents and airlines to verify security without opening packages, helping protect SPX status while keeping cargo moving efficiently.

Can SPX status be lost during transport?
Yes. SPX status can be lost if security controls fail at any point. Damaged seals, missing paperwork, unauthorised access or breaks in the secure supply chain can result in cargo being downgraded and re-screened, often causing delays and extra costs.

For more information on Security Seals for Known Consignor and SPX Air Cargo talk to Universeal (UK) Ltd