Pull Tight Cable Seal 17″ (5/64″ / 1.8mm) PTSEAL (17″) ($0.52 per unit)

What is the ISO 17712:2013 certification, and do Joeguard seals meet it?

The ISO 17712:2013 standard is the gold standard for mechanical freight container seals. It categorizes seals into three classes: Indicative, Security, and High Security. Our Joeguard series is specifically engineered and independently tested to meet the “H” (High Security) classification. This certification involves rigorous testing against tensile, shear, bend, and impact forces. When you use a Joeguard seal, you are utilizing a product that has been proven to withstand extreme physical tampering attempts.

How do Joeguard seals support C-TPAT requirements?

C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) is a voluntary supply chain security program led by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. For international shipments entering the United States, C-TPAT mandates the use of ISO 17712 High Security seals. By implementing Joeguard seals, American Seals customers ensure their cargo is “fast-tracked” through customs, reducing the likelihood of intensive examinations and costly delays at the border.

What prevents the cable from being pulled back out once locked?

The Joeguard mechanism utilizes a one-way internal locking chamber featuring a high-tensile locking pawl or ball-bearing system. Once the galvanized steel cable is inserted and pulled through, the internal teeth bite into the cable. Any attempt to pull the cable in reverse only causes the locking mechanism to bite deeper, making it physically impossible to retract the cable without destroying the seal body.

What are the advantages of galvanized steel cable over standard steel?

Standard steel is prone to rapid oxidation (rusting) when exposed to saltwater or humidity—common conditions in maritime shipping. Joeguard seals utilize galvanized steel, which is coated in a protective layer of zinc. This prevents corrosion, ensuring that the seal remains structurally sound and the laser-etched serial numbers remain legible even after weeks on a transoceanic vessel. Furthermore, the cable is designed to “splay” or unravel if cut, which prevents a bad actor from attempting to glue or weld the cable back together after a breach.

Can Joeguard seals withstand extreme temperature fluctuations?

Yes. Our seals are tested for performance in environments ranging from -40°C to 110°C (-40°F to 230°F). This makes them suitable for everything from refrigerated “reefer” containers to high-heat desert transport. The aluminum alloy or high-impact plastic bodies used in our Joeguard range are UV-stabilized to prevent brittleness and cracking under direct sunlight.

Why are Joeguard seals preferred for the oil and gas industry?

In the oil and gas sector, seals are used on valves, tankers, and pipeline hatches. The adjustable length of the Joeguard cable seal allows it to fit around complex valve handles that a standard bolt seal simply cannot reach. Its non-corrosive properties are vital in refineries and offshore platforms where chemical exposure is a daily reality.

Are these seals suitable for rail car security?

Absolutely. Rail cars face unique vibrations and physical stresses during long-haul transport. The flexibility of the Joeguard cable allows it to absorb the shock of rail shunting without snapping, a common failure point for rigid plastic seals. The high-security rating also protects against “train hopping” theft attempts in remote areas.

What type of laser marking is available?

We use state-of-the-art CO2 and Fiber laser marking systems. Unlike thermal printing, laser marking permanently alters the surface of the seal. This means your company logo, 1D/2D barcodes, or QR codes cannot be removed with chemicals or abrasives. This is the cornerstone of a secure chain of custody—if the markings look altered, the cargo is compromised.

How should I record and manage seal serial numbers?

For maximum security, we recommend a “Triple-Check” system: Record the number at the point of origin, note it on the Bill of Lading, and verify it against the physical seal at every checkpoint or transshipment point. Our Joeguard seals come with high-contrast numbering specifically to prevent “reading errors” by gate personnel.

Step-by-Step: Proper Installation of a Joeguard Seal

1. Inspect the seal: Ensure the body and cable show no signs of factory defect or prior tampering.
2. Thread the cable: Pass the cable through the locking bars or hasps of the container.
3. Engage the lock: Insert the loose end of the cable into the hole marked on the seal body.
4. Tighten: Pull the cable through until the loop is as tight as possible. A tight loop minimizes the surface area available for a tool to gain leverage.
5. Final Tug: Give the seal a firm tug to ensure the internal mechanism is fully engaged.

What are the safest removal practices?

Because Joeguard seals are High-Security, they require bypass-style cable cutters. We recommend using 24-inch or larger industrial cutters. Always wear eye protection during removal, as the tension in the cable can cause it to “whip” when severed. Once removed, the seal should be disposed of in a way that prevents the serial number from being reused or “faked” on a different seal.

Summary: The American Seals Joeguard Cable Seal is more than just a piece of hardware; it is a critical component of your global security strategy. Whether you are shipping electronics, pharmaceuticals, or industrial equipment, our Joeguard line provides the peace of mind that comes from ISO-certified engineering.