Cargo theft has become a pressing risk in transportation and logistics, with incidents surging worldwide. In the United States alone, CargoNet reported 1,696 theft incidents in the first half of 2024, representing a staggering 46% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The repercussions of these crimes extend far beyond the immediate loss of freight; they encompass the costs of product replacement, incident management, increased insurance premiums, lost sales opportunities, and long-term damage to a company’s reputation.
According to a report by TT Club and BSI, the most prevalent type of cargo theft globally in 2023 was theft by truck, which accounted for 71% of cases, followed by theft from facilities at 23%. Given that their products represent the core of their business and are vulnerable to such incidents, shippers cannot afford to be victims of these crimes. Instead, they can secure a competitive advantage by gaining insights into the tactics employed by organized criminal groups. By fortifying security protocols throughout the logistics process, these companies can proactively protect their assets, particularly during critical phases such as pick-up, transportation, and delivery.
This white paper presents five essential insights for shippers regarding cargo theft, shedding light on current trends in the U.S. and outlining the most common modus operandi used by these criminal networks. Furthermore, it offers practical prevention strategies tailored to the unique challenges of the logistics landscape. A key focus is placed on the importance of partnerships in enhancing security measures and fostering a collaborative approach to risk mitigation.
This analysis is based on thorough research and over 20 years of experience in inland distribution across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. By understanding the evolving landscape of cargo theft and implementing the recommended strategies, businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to these rising threats, safeguarding not only their products but also their overall operational integrity and market position.
Please CLICK HERE to download the White Paper.
