SECURING INTERNATIONAL SHIPMENTS
Global trade makes it easier to source goods internationally, but once a shipment lands on South African soil, the real security challenge begins. Theft, tampering, and delays pose a serious risk. At BCI Protection Services, we implement layered and effective security measures to protect your shipment from the port of arrival all the way to your warehouse
Arrival & Initial Control Measures
The moment a container arrives at a South African port, our security protocol is activated:
Seal Verification:
We verify the integrity of the container seal and take photographic evidence of the seal and container number.
Documentation:
Time, date, location, and container data are captured in a control log. All involved stakeholders are notified.
Tracking Lock Activation:
A tamper-proof GPS tracking lock is secured to the container.
This lock enables: – Geofencing alerts – Tamper detection – Real- time tracking and audit trails.
Secured Holding & Port Coordination
Secured Holding & Port Coordination
Prior to road transport, the container is moved into a secured port holding facility with:
- Controlled access
- 24/7 CCTV monitoring
- Armed presence if necessary
BCI Protection Services liaises directly with:
- SAPS Port Authority
- Port Terminal Management
- Private Security and Shipping Agents
No unauthorized access or movement is permitted during this stage.
In-Transit Escort & Secure Movement
The transport route is one of the most vulnerable phases. BCI implements comprehensive in-transit controls:
- Armed Escort Teams:
The shipment is escorted by BCI tactical security officers with two-way radio communications. - Pre-Vetted Drivers:
All drivers are screened and trained in secure transport and emergency avoidance. - Pre-Approved Route Planning:
Each route is carefully planned to avoid high-risk zones, with backup routes ready if conditions change. - Strict Stop Protocols:
The vehicle may only stop at designated, pre-approved checkpoints. Any deviation triggers an immediate alert via the tracking lock system.
Delivery to Warehouse:
Final Handover At the final destination:
- Warehouse Pre-Alert:
The receiving team is notified in advance and prepared for secure offloading.
Security Verification:
The seal is inspected on arrival. The tracking lock is removed and
verified by a BCI security supervisor. - Controlled Unloading:
Unloading takes place under CCTV surveillance. Item counts and delivery notes are cross-checked and signed off by all parties
Chain of Custody Assurance
Every handover point is documented with:
- Tracking lock data logs
- Photographic timestamp evidence
- Manual security checklists
- Delivery and acceptance forms
This process ensures full traceability and protects against insurance and legal disputes
Risk Management & Response Plan
Potential threats such as tampering, theft, and cargo fraud are actively mitigated by:
- Continuous tracking and route visibility
- Immediate alerts for any irregular activity
- Direct coordination with law enforcement if an incident occurs
- Availability of our tactical teams to support high-risk cargo
A shipment is only as secure as the journey it takes. With BCI Protection Services, your goods receive professional protection from the moment they touch South African soil until they are safely inside your warehouse. We don’t take chances-we deliver security.
