(a) Primary emphasis of the conveyance seizure program is to deter the smuggling and transportation of illegal aliens into and throughout the United States. Service officers should consider the deterrent effect in determining whether or not to seize a conveyance. Any conveyance which an officer has probable cause to believe has been used in the commission, in furtherance of, or in connection with a violation of 8 U.S.C. 1324(a) [Section 274(a) of the Act] is subject to seizure.

(b) Officers should familiarize themselves with the warrant requirement and its exceptions. In many situations officers encounter conveyances which may be seized without a warrant under the moving conveyance exception and where exigent circumstances otherwise excuse the need to obtain a warrant. However where the officer has prior knowledge of the location of the conveyance and proceeds to that location with an intention to seize, a warrant should be obtained.