Railway seals are high-security barrier devices that lock the doors and hatches of rail wagons and rail cars, and they resist forced entry while giving clear evidence of tampering. Because different wagons need different locking points, the common forms are the railroad bolt — a long steel pin that fits varied latches — and the cable type, which threads a steel cable through a hopper or hatch mechanism. In addition, quality units are certified to ISO 17712:2013 “H” (High Security), so they suit high-value and cross-border rail freight. Once fitted, a bolt or cable can only be removed with cutters, and every unit is barcoded and serial-numbered for tracking.
Railway seal types by rail car
Because rail cars vary, the table below matches the main devices to the wagon they suit.
Rail car
Recommended device
Why
Box car
Railroad bolt seal
Strong pin locks packaged-goods doors
Hopper car
Cable seal
Handles shifting bulk loads and hatches
Tank car
Bolt or cable seal
Secures multiple valve and access points
Automotive carrier
Barrier bolt seal
High breaking strength for high-value cargo
For cross-border rail freight, choose an ISO 17712 “H” certified device.
Railway seals — frequently asked questions
Show FAQ
What seal is best for a rail wagon? A railroad bolt suits box-car doors, whereas a cable type suits hopper hatches and shifting loads. Therefore, the choice depends on the wagon and its locking point.
Are railway seals ISO 17712 certified? High-security bolt and cable types are certified to ISO 17712:2013 “H”, which suits high-value and cross-border rail freight. Always check the certificate for the specific product.
How are railway seals removed? A fitted bolt or cable can only be removed with bolt or cable cutters, so it delays intrusion. Because each unit is numbered, any interference is easy to trace.