subject: Do Legal Document Shipments Get Extra Security? [print this page] There are obviously certain types of shipments that courier services transport that require more security than others. This is often based on the value or legal status of the cargo that is being shipped. However, there are some things, like legal documents, which do require extra security, but receive that security in ways which are different than armored cars and guards to watch the shipments.
The security that is given to legal documents is usually the kind where the document is made secure because the courier company knows where it is at all times. They do this by only allowing one courier to handle high security legal documents. Normally, a courier service involves several couriers passing off goods to one another in the most efficient way possible, so that the delivery is made in the least possible amount of time. From a security point of view though, this model is a nightmare. It creates a situation where you can never be sure exactly where something went wrong, if the package ever went missing or if the information in the document was to become exposed.
When only one person handles the document, you know exactly where it is at all times. First, this is going to drastically reduce the chance that the package can be lost or misplaced. Although packages don't get lost often with courier companies, when they do, it is often when they are being transferred from one courier or vehicle to another.
The other great thing about this type of security for legal documents is that it creates accountability. When you're shipping a legal document, it is quite often not only the paper itself that you need protected, but also the information that is within the document. When only one courier is going to handle the project, they know that they are the ones which will be held accountable if the information was to come to light inappropriately. This raises their level of attention to detail greatly, and they do everything they can to protect the document. They should also usually sign confidentiality agreements in case they accidently view something in the documents.
This type of courier service is called in most courier companies 'in hand courier service.' Some of the most important firms in the world trust their legal documents to shipping in their manner because they know just how reliable it can be. Courier companies also only use their most experienced or trustworthy members on these jobs.
