The fear of cargo being lost, damaged, or otherwise compromised in transit is a common one. For shippers with international supply chains, these anxieties are intensified by unpredictable factors like war and geopolitical tensions, tariffs, piracy, natural disasters, and more.
It goes without saying that the safety and integrity of your freight as it moves through your supply chain is paramount — but how can you be 100 percent certain of its security at any given time?
At Anderson Trucking Service (ATS), we help our customers manage supply chains of all sizes and scopes, from domestic shippers to international giants.
Our experience in this arena allows us to share expert knowledge on freight security methods for global supply chains, as well as advice on what you can do to contribute to the safety of your cargo.
In this article, we’ll explain the common tactics global transportation providers use to keep shipments safe, and provide actionable suggestions for shippers throughout.
You’ll walk away with peace of mind that your supply chain is as secure as possible — and the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions that will keep it that way.
How Do Freight Carriers Keep Cargo Secure?
Global supply chains depend on the safe, seamless movement of goods across borders, continents, and oceans.
An experienced transportation provider will be aware of the many risks inherent to this complex process and utilize various measures — from paperwork to tamper-proof barriers to hands-on inspections — to ensure cargo reaches its destination intact.
Here are some of the most common ways freight carriers work to keep cargo secure as it moves through global supply chains.
Paperwork
In global logistics, the saying “the devil is in the details” couldn’t be more true. Proper documentation is the first line of defense against issues like customs delays, theft, and mis-delivery.
Any kind of international shipping will require the standard documents, like a bill of lading (BOL), invoice, and packing list, but there are some forms that are unique depending on whether you’re importing or exporting.
If you are importing freight to the U.S. by ocean, an Importer Security Filing (ISF) must be submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at least 24 hours before the vessel departs its origin destination.
ISF forms help ensure smooth customs clearance. Failure to file can cost shippers thousands of dollars in fees, cause increased cargo inspections, and ultimately result in delayed shipments and disrupted supply chains.
If you are exporting from the U.S., an Electronic Export Information (EEI) form must be submitted through the U.S. Census Bureau's Automated Export System, also called the ACE system or ACE AESDirect, for most shipments. EEIs track U.S. exports and ensure compliance with trade regulations.
While EEIs are generally required for most exports from the U.S., there are exceptions for commodities valued under $2,500, shipments to Canada, and shipments to some U.S. territories — provided the EEI filing is not mandatory for other reasons.
In some cases, a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) is also needed to confirm that goods meet safety standards in both the U.S. and the destination country. Typically, the exporter is responsible for ensuring goods are tested and verified as meeting the requisite safety standards.
Your carrier will take the lead on completing and filing the vast majority of this required paperwork — but remember, it is your responsibility to provide them with the necessary information in a timely fashion.
Related: What Are Incoterms? International Commercial Terms Meanings and Usages
Packaging, Tracking, and Inspections
A reliable freight carrier always strives to minimize the risk of tampering, theft, or damage to cargo during transit. Among the most common means of achieving this goal are packaging and securement considerations, tracking technologies, and inspections.
Packaging
Your carrier will work with you to determine the best, most secure packaging method for your cargo’s unique requirements. This may include containerization, palletization, racking, crating, shrink wrap, etc.
Some types of containers may also have digital or manual locks. A container seal can also be applied; these seals are documented and listed on BOLs for an extra layer of verification.
If the seal is broken, it is immediately clear to customs agents and carriers that the container may have been damaged or opened. They will then inspect the cargo and escalate the issue as needed.
Tracking
Tracking technologies have made it possible for shippers to follow their freight’s path from origin to destination. These technologies range from real-time location monitoring to geofencing alerts to tamper-detection sensors.
While each carrier’s specific capabilities will vary, this technology helps prevent theft, misdelivery, and other losses. Tracking tools offer peace of mind to shippers, who can then focus more on their operations, confident that their goods are protected throughout transit.
Inspections
Before any freight movement takes place, a pre-shipment cargo inspection may be carried out. A general inspection includes verification of quantity, packaging, serial or reference numbers, and the overall condition of the merchandise to fulfill customer requirements.
Inspections are then conducted throughout the customs clearance process to ensure that cargo remains safe and intact.
At border crossings or transfer points, it’s common for shipments to undergo visual inspections and, in some cases, scans (such as an X-ray or radiation detection) to ensure that no foul play has occurred.
If customs must open a sealed shipment for any reason, they must notify the carrier, reseal the cargo, and provide a reseal number.
Certain types of shipments may require inspection by other authorities. Flat rack shipments, for example, require an inspection by the National Cargo Bureau (NCB), a global organization working to enhance safety and ensure regulation compliance relating to dangerous goods, the stability of ships carrying bulk cargoes, and proper stowage and securing of cargo for sea.
If you’re unsure whether your shipment type will require a NCB inspection or other surveying, reach out to your carrier. They’ll be able to answer your questions and advise you on what to expect.
Finally, as a shipment reaches the last few miles of its journey, freight carriers lean on the expertise of their truck drivers.
Drivers will check the freight for damage, tampering, broken seals, and missing elements. Only once everything is confirmed to be in order will the driver sign off on the BOL.
Supply Chain Security Tips for Shippers
While freight carriers play a major role in securing shipments, shippers can also take steps to enhance cargo safety.
By being proactive in your approach to supply chain security, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with global transportation. Here are our top four supply chain security tips for shippers:
Tip #1: Choose Highly-Vetted Carriers
It’s impossible to overstate the importance of choosing a reputable carrier. Your choice of carrier is the foundation of your supply chain’s security.
Working with highly vetted carriers — those with many years of experience and a proven track record of reliability, safety protocols, and compliance with international regulations — is absolutely critical.
Look for providers with memberships to selective carrier networks, such as WCAworld and United Ocean Lines.
These types of organizations typically admit carriers based on experience, require a membership fee, and make stringent safety certifications and audits conditional to membership. This ensures that all members are committed to providing secure transportation services.
If a prospective carrier is not a member of a network with rigorous qualifying standards, they may still hold relevant certifications. Carriers can make a cost-free investment in the safety of the freight they handle by earning and maintaining a Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) certification, for example.
Ultimately, when vetting a carrier, consider factors like the company’s security standards, technological capabilities, years of experience, and overall reputation in the market.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about a carrier’s credentials or protocols, or request references from other shippers in similar industries. The answers to those questions will help you make the most informed choice for your supply chain.
Tip #2: Consider Additional Security Requirements
Depending on the nature of your freight, it may be worth considering extra security measures.
High-value shipments or sensitive goods, such as electronics or pharmaceuticals, are often targeted by thieves. As a result, many shippers opt for additional protection, such as container seals, GPS tracking, escorts, or cargo insurance.
While each of these protective steps come with an additional price tag, it may be worth it for the peace of mind they provide.
Whether you choose to spend more for a higher degree of protection or not, the best freight security strategy is always a layered one. Work with your carrier to combine physical securement elements, technological monitoring, and risk mitigation to create a balanced strategy that makes sense for your cargo.
Tip #3: Double-Check Documentation
Regardless of whether your supply chain is domestic or global, it’s important to ensure all necessary paperwork is completed correctly before your cargo leaves its point of origin. Missing or inaccurate documentation can lead to unnecessary inspections or detentions, exposing freight to risk.
As a shipper, you can do your part by completing all paperwork promptly, and reviewing your provided information meticulously for accuracy.
Look for misspellings, numerical errors, swapped addresses or contact information, etc. If any areas are incorrect, incomplete, or missing information, be sure to alert your transportation partner and provide the correct information immediately.
Speaking of your transportation partner: Choosing a freight carrier that emphasizes thorough documentation (and clear, consistent communication) will help keep your supply chain moving smoothly and reduce risks. Be wary of any carrier that does not offer transparency, visibility, and assistance when it comes to your paperwork.
Tip #4: Stay Up to Date On Global News
One of the most unpredictable threats to global supply chains comes from the ever-changing geopolitical landscape. Natural disasters, political unrest, and trade disputes can all disrupt the movement of freight.
Shippers who stay informed about global news can better anticipate potential disruptions and reroute shipments accordingly.
In other words: Be aware of “when” and “where.” When is your cargo scheduled to move? Does that timing conflict with any known disruptions or ongoing conflicts? Where will your freight be moving? Is the origin, destination, or route currently experiencing any news-worthy events?
Keeping track of these key developments in the regions through which your supply chain moves will help you (and your carriers) take a proactive stance. In some cases, adjusting your transit routes or timing can save your shipments from being delayed — or worse, compromised.
Proactive Steps Ensure Long-Term Freight Security
Securing your cargo across global supply chains requires a combination of strategic partnerships, vigilant planning, and advanced technology.
While reliable freight carriers provide a solid foundation for safety — through proper documentation, secure packaging, inspections, and tracking technologies — shippers also play a supporting role in facilitating that security.
By choosing highly vetted carriers, staying informed on global events, and considering additional protective measures, you can significantly reduce risks to your freight.
This layered approach to freight security, involving both physical and technological solutions, provides the best chance for your shipments to arrive intact and on time.
At the end of the day, safeguarding your supply chain is about being proactive. With the right combination of carrier expertise and shipper diligence, you can ensure your cargo stays safe from origin to destination — giving you peace of mind and confidence in your operations.
If you’re looking for a reputable international transportation provider, check out our article on the Top 8 Global Freight Forwarders in 2024 (And How to Choose a Provider).
It’s a solid starting place for any shipper that values carrier experience, as the companies included are ranked based on the volume of twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) shipped in 2021/2022.
You’ll walk away with a primer on eight major freight forwarders and our expert advice on what to look for in an international shipping partner, so you can make the best decision for your supply chain’s efficiency and security.
