Maersk demands compliance on all trades

ALAN PEAT THE SHIPPING line Maersk Sealand now requires that all containers being transported under the line’s bills of lading must be fitted with a high-security bolt container seal meeting the criteria of ISO DIS 17712 – an item already compulsory for containers travelling to or via ports in the US. This, according to SA MD Flemming Dalgaard, is intended to help protect shippers’ cargo during transit. The new policy demands that, immediately after a container is stuffed, a high-security seal must be applied and the seal number documented. The cost for this security move will be borne by the shipper. While Maersk will be paying for the seals, it is part of the shipping charges, according to Dalgaard.