Customs is currently able to search < 2% of the 2.7 million maritime containers passing through ports daily. Transnational criminal organizations are capitalizing on this, concealing large volumes of environmental contraband among this burgeoning maritime trade. To address these challenges, we developed a method that combines remote air sampling with canine detection. The method enables port authorities to rapidly screen containers for environmental contraband with minimal impact on port operations. A portable handheld device draws air from external container vents, passing it through an inexpensive, widely available odor capture pad that is then presented to dogs trained for contraband detection, in or out of public view. The method can also be used to covertly determine the types and frequencies of contraband passing through ports, enabling authorities to develop targeted search protocols before traffickers are aware they’re being targeted. We describe the validation of the device and how we are testing this on detection of illegal timber passing through a high-volume port of entry for wood products entering the US.