August 8, 2008

Starting October 15, a new rule mandated by Customs and Border Protection will require all ocean containers bound for the U.S. to have seals that meet the ISO/PAS 17712 standards for unique numbering, strength, durability, and resistance to tampering.

However, the rule could pose problems for shippers and carriers if there are not enough of the seals to meet demand, according to a report in the Journal of Commerce.

Containerized imports at the nation’s top seaports this year is estimated to total nearly 16 million.