Although they are small and look non-threatening, security seals made of plastic are used for many security applications. These applications include such daily uses as securing tankers, truck trailers, totes, containers, utility metres, fire extinguishers, jewellery, and money bags. As a result, the seals are featured in a broad array of seal sizes and types. Therefore, an appropriate seal can be made for almost any type of application.

Adjustable-length Seals

One of the commonly used seals is the adjustable-length seal. This versatile kind of plastic seal comes in various strengths and lengths. When it is cinched tight, it is used to efficiently secure objects. This multi-purpose seal is used in such venues as logistics, loss prevention, and the airline industry. The adjustability of the seals and their larger print area makes them a practical solution for securing railroad cars, cabinets, trailers, ballot boxes, and valuables-in-transit.

Fixed-length Seals

Fixed-length seals prevent tampering by highlighting a visible and secure locking position at a set length. The most common versions of the seals are twin tote seals, truck seals, and padlock seals. Fixed-length plastic security seals are particularly efficient in the transportation, logistics, supply chain, and loss prevention fields. Wherever the print area needs are minimal, these seals can be used.

The fixed-length seals are considered more tamper-evident because of their sole locking position. This positioning provides a more visible check on the seal’s integrity. Although adjustable seals offer excellent tamper-evident features, users still have to cinch them tightly to prevent a loose seal. If the seal is not cinched tight, it can be cut off, causing it to become unsecured.

Checking the Integrity

In order to address the issue, many adjustable seals contain indicators that will show that a seal is cut and has been re-sealed. However, the indicators are typically visible only on closer inspection. In the case of fixed-length seals, the indication of integrity is much easier to spot – the seal will arrive either unlocked or locked. Once a fixed seal has been broken, it cannot be re-sealed.

Padlock Seals

A plastic padlock security seal is a fixed-length seal that is used to secure cabinets, metres, drums, and catering carts. This one-of-a-kind fixed-length seal features a bigger print area for displaying information. It also possesses an exacting fit for special applications. Padlock seals are often the preferred seal in security-conscious industries, such as food service, medical, pharmaceutical, and the airlines.

Security seals then serve two major purposes. They are a cost-efficient way to deter tampering and theft, and they provide a sense of safety and security. Each seal type is each made to serve a specific purpose. Therefore, picking a seal for your application means understanding each of the styles’ prominent factors.

Apart from the seal type and length, the tensile of a seal is an important consideration. For example, a seal that secures a first aid kit typically needs a low break or tensile strength to supply the security of a sealed kit whilst offering easy access. In contrast, a security seal for a tanker truck needs a far higher tensile strength.

Common sense, of course, will dictate the type of seal you need. However, it is good to know the various seal types in order to make a better, if not more informed, decision.