The Top 5 Mistakes Logistics Teams Make With Security Seals, & How to Avoid Them

Security seals may be small and inexpensive, but in logistics they do an outsized job. They protect high-value goods, maintain chain of custody, provide tamper evidence, and support regulatory compliance. Yet across transport fleets, fulfilment centres, 3PLs and healthcare logistics, most seal failures stem from human error rather than product faults.

Below are the five most common mistakes logistics teams make with tamper-evident seals — and how better practice can markedly strengthen supply-chain security.

1. Using the wrong type of seal
   A frequent issue is simply choosing the wrong seal. Different seals suit different risk levels, strengths and regulatory requirements, but fast-paced operations often grab whatever is to hand.

Common misapplications include:

• Using non-ISO 17712 high-security seals on export containers

• Specifying lightweight pull-tight seals where strength is required (e.g. roll cages)

• Using fixed-length seals where adjustable pull-tight seals are needed (e.g. mail sacks)

• Applying security labels where a mechanical seal is necessary

Why it matters: A mismatch invites breakage, tampering opportunities or non-compliance at borders.

How to avoid it: Run a simple seal audit and select by application, risk and compliance. Universeal supplies pull-tight, fixed-length, cable, bolt and label-based seals for every requirement. Use the Security Level, Break Strength and Removal Method filters on our security seals page to shortlist suitable products.

2. Failing to record seal numbers correctly
   A seal only does its job if its unique serial number is captured within a documented chain of custody. Failures here are common and undermine the point of sealing.

Typical errors:

• Numbers not logged at despatch

• Manual entry mistakes

• Numbers not matched on delivery

• Barcodes present but not scanned

• Stubs or receipts misplaced

Why it matters: Without a recorded number there’s no verifiable chain of custody, so you cannot prove tampering or compliance.

How to avoid it: Use barcoded seals, build number capture into despatch/receipt workflows, and train staff to treat seal numbers as critical documentation.

3. Incorrect application
   Even the best seal fails if fitted badly. Poor application creates vulnerabilities and weakens tamper evidence.

Typical mistakes:

• Seal not fully locked (“half-clicked”)

• Pull-tight seals left with slack

• Seals fitted to the wrong latch or tie-point

• Labels placed on dusty, oily or unsuitable surfaces

Why it matters: Incorrectly applied seals can be bypassed, re-seated or removed without detection.

How to avoid it: Create SOPs showing correct threading, locking, placement and the required number of seals per door or latch.

4. Reusing single-use seals
   Despite being single-use, attempts to reuse seals are surprisingly common — usually to save cost or through misunderstanding.

Examples:

• Re-threading a broken pull-tight seal

• Taping or gluing a broken seal

• Re-sticking tamper-evident labels

Why it matters: Single-use seals are designed for destructive removal. Reuse removes tamper evidence and creates major compliance risks.

How to avoid it: Train teams on correct use, encourage reporting of broken/missing seals, and use colour-coded batches to prevent accidental reuse. For closed-loop operations, consider reusable tamper-evident security bags with locking chambers.

5. Insufficient staff training
   Seal handling is often skipped at onboarding, yet it is vital to chain of custody. Without training, misuse is inevitable.

Common gaps:

• Not knowing which seal to select

• Incorrect fitting methods

• Poor number-recording practice

• Failure to recognise tampering on arrival

Why it matters: Human error becomes the weak link, compromising security, compliance and auditability.

How to avoid it: Introduce a short training module covering selection, application, number tracking and tampering response. Universeal can supply visual guides and best-practice materials.

Final thoughts
Tightening seal management is a low-cost, high-impact improvement for any logistics operation. The right seals, used correctly, with proper number recording and basic staff training, significantly reduce risk and strengthen your chain of custody.

Universeal supplies a full range of tamper-evident security seals for logistics, healthcare, retail and international transport, including:

• Plastic pull-tight seals

• Fixed-length seals

• Cable and ISO 17712 bolt seals

• Tamper-evident security bags

• Security labels and tapes

• Custom-printed options for branding and traceability

For more information on The Top 5 Mistakes Logistics Teams Make With Security Seals, & How to Avoid Them talk to Universeal (UK) Ltd