What is the purpose of a customs seal on a container?

The purpose of a customs seal on a container is to act as a temporary device that ensures the integrity of the contents by preventing unauthorized access. It provides a visible indicator that the container has not been tampered with since it was sealed by customs authorities. If the seal is broken or removed, this signals that the container may have been opened without proper authorization, triggering further investigation.

This function is crucial for maintaining security and compliance with international shipping regulations, as it helps to protect the cargo from theft, contamination, or smuggling. Customs seals are typically placed on containers during the export process and remain in place until the container reaches its destination, where it can be inspected by customs officials.

In contrast, options mentioning a permanent lock, a signature for contents, or standard marks for shipping address different aspects of container security and identification, but do not capture the specific role of customs seals related to preventing unauthorized access.