Updated equipment for Non-Intrusive Inspections (NII) of shipping containers is essential, and all reports of suspicious noises or activity should be investigated immediately.
There is a growing concern about children and trafficking victims being smuggled in shipping containers, though most human trafficking cases use other methods. While safety measures are in place and modern NII technology can detect many concealment tactics, we must ensure these safeguards are consistently applied and that any older technology is upgraded as needed.
- Ensure that specific metals or materials are not used inside shipping containers to block or distort X-ray, gamma-ray, light reflecting, or thermal detection, and confirm that no items or materials attempt to disguise the container’s contents.
With advancing technology, certain materials can distort or conceal thermal and visual detection. Continuing to rely on outdated technology and procedures in some locations could leave a security gap. Reviewing our current regulations and laws regarding shipping containers is crucial to confirm they align with today’s technology. Vulnerabilities at ports could pose serious security risks, and shipping containers could potentially be used to discreetly traffic drugs, illicit goods, or individuals into the United States.
