“Cargo thieves are well aware that extended holiday closures work to their advantage,” stressed Keith Lewis, Vice President of Operations at CargoNet. “With theft activity already surpassing 2023’s record highs, we urge the industry to remain vigilant throughout the holiday weekend.”

Key Findings From CargoNet’s Data

CargoNet’s analysis of 174 recorded thefts during July 1–7 over the past five years highlights the following disturbing trends:

• Peak Risk Days: Cargo theft rates notably spike on July 1st and 2nd. These days see numerous loaded vehicles left unattended prior to the holiday.
• Rising Theft Activity: Even though 2023 marked a year of record theft rates, 2024 is already on track to exceed those numbers.
• High-Risk Locations: States facing frequent targeting include California, Texas, and Florida. Specific counties like San Bernardino (CA), Maricopa (AZ), Dallas (TX), Los Angeles (CA), and Shelby (TN) are particularly theft-prone hotspots.
• Preferred Targets: Criminals show a marked preference for high-demand goods, such as non-alcoholic drinks (especially energy drinks), major appliances, and computer electronics.
• Theft Methods: Cargo theft and direct vehicle theft remain more commonly executed than elaborate fraud schemes.

Examples of Past Theft Incidents

Previous July 4th weeks have seen significant losses, including:

• $439,895 in medical supplies – Davenport, FL
• $352,000 of computer electronics – San Francisco, CA
• $314,191 of computer electronics – Commerce, CA
• $180,000 worth of meat products – Georgetown, TX
• $180,000 worth of ATVs – Savannah, GA

What You Can Do to Mitigate Risk

CargoNet advises companies to reinforce security measures during this critical time. From employing GPS tracking devices to avoiding unattended storage and verifying hiring credentials, proactive steps can minimize vulnerabilities during the holiday.

Logistics stakeholders, don’t ignore these warning signs. Ensure your cargo and operations are safeguarded as the July 4th holiday nears.

Image &Source: The Trucker

The post CargoNet Issues Advisory on Increased Cargo Theft Risk During July 4th Holiday Week appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A Shared Struggle for Trucking Companies

“Directly or indirectly, virtually all trucking companies are victims of cargo theft. Either they are victims of crime, or they are spending so much money to defend against being targeted that they are still victims,” said Costello. “ATA looks forward to working with committee members to safeguard the entire supply chain, including trucking, to protect businesses and their employees as well as lower costs for consumers.”

Congress has recurringly focused on cargo theft, with ATA stepping in as an essential voice twice in under two months.

The Staggering Cost of Cargo Theft

According to ATA data, freight-related crimes cost the supply chain up to $35 billion annually, indirectly driving up consumer prices. Since early 2021, “strategic theft” has skyrocketed by 1,500%, with the average value of stolen shipments exceeding $200,000 per incident.

Cargo theft takes various forms, from breaking into parked tractor-trailers and double-brokering fraud to cyberattacks and long-term pilfering. Criminals increasingly use advanced digital tactics to outwit carriers.

During testimony earlier this year, Adam Blanchard, an ATA member, shared a firsthand account of cargo theft. Blanchard’s company fell victim to identity theft and related fraud. Despite reporting the crimes to insurance providers, local law enforcement agencies, the FBI, and the Department of Homeland Security, little actionable support was provided.

A Complex Crime Demanding Federal Action

“Due to the complex, multi-jurisdictional nature of these crimes, only the federal government has the resources and technical capabilities to take down organized theft groups,” ATA stated in a press release.

Recognizing this challenge, ATA recently endorsed the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act, designed to establish a unified federal response to these transnational crimes. ATA emphasized that organized cargo theft rings often operate across state and national boundaries, which demands a cohesive, large-scale federal strategy.

As part of its 2024 agenda, ATA has also prioritized security measures, including the fight against cargo theft and cybercrime, as essential pillars supporting the trucking industry and protecting businesses and consumers.

Cargo theft is no longer just a trucking issue; it’s a supply chain-wide crisis with profound national economic implications. Addressing this threat is crucial for businesses and lawmakers alike to ensure a more stable, secure, and cost-efficient flow of goods.

Source: The Trucker
Image Source: ATA

The post ATA Advocates Against Rising Cargo Theft appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.