Cargo theft and pilferage often happen between the loading bay and the destination, when nobody is watching the load. Electronic cargo seals and smart GPS cargo locks both close that gap. They look similar, but they suit different jobs.
Electronic cargo seal
A seal is fitted to the container or truck door at the start of a trip. It has a GPS tracker and detects cutting or opening. At the destination it is removed, and a record shows whether it was opened on the way. Seals suit one-way trips, transit and export cargo.
Smart GPS cargo lock
A Smart GPS cargo lock is a reusable smart padlock. It reports its position and records each lock and unlock. Many models can be locked and unlocked from an app or with a code, which is useful when a driver, a guard and a customer all need access at different points. Smart GPS cargo locks suit regular routes and depots.
How they compare
- Cost per trip: seals are replaced after each trip, while a lock is reused. If you run many trips, a lock usually costs less over time.
- Access control: locks can let the right person open the door at the right place. Seals mainly prove whether it was opened.
- Battery: check the battery against your longest trip, including delays at borders and weighbridges.
- Alerts: look for cut, open, low battery and route alerts on your phone.
Questions to ask before you buy
- How many trips and containers do I run each month?
- Do I need remote lock and unlock?
- Does it work on my route, including across borders?
- Does it appear in the same app as my vehicles?
- Who supports me if a device fails mid-trip?
Customs rules can apply to cargo in transit, so check the requirements with your clearing agent before you choose a device.
See our electronic cargo seals and smart GPS cargo locks solution, or ask for a quote and tell us your routes. Call or WhatsApp {phone}.