Prior to shipping a nuclear gauge, what must be ensured regarding the package's condition?

For shipping a nuclear gauge, ensuring that the package is in unimpaired physical condition is crucial for maintaining safety and compliance with regulatory standards. A nuclear gauge contains radioactive materials that must be securely contained to prevent leakage or damage during transport. If the packaging is damaged, it could compromise the integrity of the gauge, leading to potential exposure risk and contamination. Therefore, confirming that the package is intact and structurally sound helps to ensure safe handling and minimizes the risk of accidents during transportation.

Other options do not capture the essential requirement for shipping. While it may be beneficial for the package to appear new or free from superficial marks, these factors are not as critical in terms of safety and regulatory compliance as the overall physical condition. Additionally, being on a specific list of approved packages might pertain to some shipping guidelines, but the fundamental requirement is the package's structural integrity to prevent hazards associated with transporting radioactive materials.