How To Open Plastic Security Seals

1. Introduction

Plastic security seals are everywhere—in logistics, warehouses, retail, and even the energy sector. They are used to protect goods, provide tamper evidence, and help track asset integrity during transportation and storage. But once they’ve done their job, removing them can be tricky without the right approach.

1.1 Why Plastic Security Seals Are Used

Plastic security seals, including tamper-evident seals and tamper-proof plastic seals, are one-time-use locking devices. They offer:

• Tamper detection: Any unauthorized access attempt leaves visible damage.
• Identification: Many come with serial numbers or barcodes.
• Cost-effective security: Compared to metal options, they’re lightweight and affordable.
• Customization: Businesses can use custom plastic security seals with logos, QR codes, or color-coding.

1.2 Why It’s Difficult to Remove Them

Because plastic security seals are designed to resist tampering and can only be removed by destructive means, appropriate tools and techniques are required. Compliance with standards like ISO 17712 is essential, as it defines security seal classifications and tamper-evident requirements to ensure seals cannot be removed without visible damage. Following these standards helps prevent safety risks, equipment damage, and regulatory violations during removal.

2. Plastic Security Seal Structures

Before removal, it’s essential to understand the design. Common plastic seal structures include:

• Pull-tight mechanism: Works like a zip tie with a locking head.
• Fixed-length seal: A set-length strap with a secure clasp.
• Padlock-style seal: Resembles a mini padlock, often for meters or cabinets.
• Cable tie security seal: Thicker and stronger than standard zip ties.
• Numbered seals: Include serials or barcodes for audit trails.

Each type needs a different removal method and tool.

3. How to Open Plastic Security Seals Step By Step

Removing plastic security seals effectively and safely requires understanding each seal type’s locking mechanism, the materials used, and the context in which they’re applied. Below are detailed guides tailored to the five most common types of plastic security seals.

3.1 Pull Tight Plastic Seals

Application: Widely used for courier bags, warehouse totes, postal sacks, cash bags, and ballot boxes. Designed for adjustable tightness.

Recommended Tools:

• Cable cutters
• Heavy-duty scissors
• Side/diagonal cutting pliers

Open Steps:

1. Identify the narrowest part of the strap—usually near the locking head.
2. Use cable cutters or pliers to cut flush against the locking head.
3. Remove the remaining strap carefully.

Do Not:

• Attempt to pull it apart by force—it won’t break and could cause injury.
• Use box cutters, which can easily slip.

3.2 Fixed Length Seals

Application: Often found on container doors, truck trailers, and cargo shipments. These seals provide consistent locking strength.

Recommended Tools:

• Industrial snips
• Bolt cutters (for thick strap types)
• Ratcheting cable cutters

Open Steps:

1. Examine the seal for a designated break point.
2. Position the tool on the flat section of the strap, close to the locking block.
3. Apply steady pressure to snap it cleanly.

Do Not:

• Twist or bend aggressively; it could damage the seal’s surroundings.
• Use insufficient force tools—could lead to slipping and poor cuts.

3.3 Plastic Padlock Seals

Application: Commonly used in retail, airline carts, lockers, and first aid boxes. Designed to mimic traditional padlocks.

Recommended Tools:

• Mini bolt cutters
• End-cutting pliers

Open Steps:

1. Hold the plastic body firmly with one hand.
2. Cut across the shank (stem) using end cutters or mini bolt cutters.
3. Discard all pieces properly to prevent reattachment.

Do Not:

• Try to “unlock” by twisting—these are single-use.
• Yank forcefully—it could result in snapping and flying debris.

3.4 Cable Tie Security Seals

Application: Used in telecom panels, meter boxes, fuel valves, and distribution boards. They combine tamper-evident function with zip-tie form.

Recommended Tools:

• Flush cutters
• Electrical cable snips

Open Steps:

1. Locate the tail end near the locking eye.
2. Snip close to the locking mechanism.
3. Slide out the remnant smoothly.

Do Not:

• Use knives, as the narrow strap can deflect blades.
• Ignore tension—ensure you’re cutting a non-load-bearing strap.

3.5 Numbered Plastic Seals

Application: These are widely used in customs inspection, cash-in-transit (CIT) operations, and warehouse audits due to their traceability.

Recommended Tools:

• Same as per seal structure type (pull-tight, fixed-length, etc.)
• Mobile phone or scanner (for documenting numbers)

Open Steps:

1. Before cutting, visually confirm and record the serial number—photo or digital log.
2. Use the appropriate removal method based on its physical design.
3. Dispose of the seal responsibly to prevent misuse.

Do Not:

• Cut before documentation—this could result in compliance issues.
• Use generic tools not designed for the seal’s thickness.