C-TPAT seven-point container inspection

Guidance on seven-point container inspection for C-TPAT

Seven-point container inspection diagram

The original diagram and numbered positions are preserved. Condition and cleanliness checks support cargo security but do not replace the complete current C-TPAT criteria.

1. Outside, undercarriage and structural frame

Visually inspect the container exterior, including its undercarriage and structural frame.

Investigate tears, holes, deformations or other damage, checking the undercarriage and corners again.

These areas can be overlooked but are important to the condition of the cargo carried inside.

2. Inside and outside the doors

Check for holes, cracks and water ingress using a safe inspection method. Entry must follow the site’s risk assessment and safe-entry procedure, with appropriate ventilation and atmospheric checks where needed; never lock an inspector inside a container.

Inspect rivets and fittings around the seal-locking points for damage, looseness or signs of lifting.

Check that the doors and locking bars operate safely and close securely against water ingress.

For refrigerated containers, also inspect protective panels, ventilation openings, cold-air ducts and refrigeration equipment.

3. Right wall and side edges

Inspect the right wall and side edges for corrosion and potential holes, especially at the floor junction.

4. Left wall and side edges

Inspect the left wall and edges in the same way as the right side, paying particular attention to corrosion and the floor junction.

5. Front wall

Inspect the front wall and edges using the same approach as for the side walls.

6. Ceiling and roof

Carefully inspect the ceiling and roof for damage that could compromise the container’s protective envelope.

Combine internal and external observations, using competent personnel to identify causes and suitable corrective action.

7. Interior floor

The interior floor must be clean, dry and free from objectionable odours or contamination. Check it carefully for moisture-related deterioration, damage and corrosion of metal components.

Container markings and capacities

Also check the identification and capacity information marked on the container.

• Maximum gross weight: the maximum permitted combined mass of the loaded cargo and the container itself.
• Maximum payload: the maximum permitted cargo mass, including packaging, pallets, dunnage and securing materials.
• Tare weight: the mass of the empty container, which depends on its construction and materials.
• Internal capacity: the container’s available internal cargo volume.

Related articles

Introduction to C-TPAT

Benefits of C-TPAT

C-TPAT consulting process

C-TPAT requirements

C-TPAT truck and trailer inspection

OSHA — hazardous-atmosphere entry safety reference