Freight theft is a serious issue that can have a significant impact on the transportation and logistics industry. In this blog post, we will explore how freight theft happens, the types of cargo that are commonly targeted, statistics related to theft, recent news, and measures that can be taken to prevent it.
How Freight Theft Happens
Freight theft can happen in a number of ways, such as through hijacking, cargo diversion, and warehouse burglary. Thieves often target high-value goods, such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and jewelry. They may also target trucks and containers that are parked in unsecured areas or on the side of the road.
Types of Cargo Targeted
Freight theft can occur with any type of cargo, including LTL (less-than-truckload), FTL (full truckload), and container shipments. However, certain commodities are more commonly targeted by thieves. For example, according to a report by SensiGuard, electronics and pharmaceuticals were among the most commonly stolen items in 2020.
Statistics on Freight Theft
According to the FreightWatch International’s 2021 Cargo Theft Report, the United States experienced a total of 828 cargo theft incidents in 2020, with an average loss value of $166,292 per theft. Additionally, the report revealed that food and beverage products were the most commonly targeted items.
Recent News
In a recent incident in the United States, a truck carrying $100,000 worth of goods was stolen while parked at a truck stop. Similarly, in the United Kingdom, a lorry carrying over $900,000 worth of cigarettes was stolen from a secure compound. A trailer loaded with $1.4 million worth of Apple products was stolen from a trucking company’s yard in California. The trailer was later recovered, but the cargo was missing. In January 2021, thieves stole $2 million worth of Amazon-branded products from a truck in California. The driver had parked the truck overnight, and the thieves used a forklift to remove the cargo. These incidents highlights the need for effective security measures to prevent freight theft.
Measures to Prevent Freight Theft
There are several measures that businesses can take to reduce the risk of freight theft, including:
- Conducting background checks on carriers and employees involved in transportation and storage of goods.
- Utilizing technology such as GPS tracking, geofencing, and alarms to monitor cargo in real-time.
- Implementing secure facilities, including fenced yards, secure parking areas, and gated warehouses, and using security measures such as cameras, lighting, and guards.
- Training employees to recognize and report suspicious activity or behavior, such as unauthorized individuals attempting to access cargo or drivers deviating from established routes.
The Importance of Staying Vigilant
Staying vigilant and adapting to changing trends and technologies is crucial in preventing freight theft. As the global supply chain continues to evolve, businesses must remain informed about the latest threats and take proactive steps to protect their assets.
Future Outlook for Freight Theft
As the global supply chain continues to evolve, freight theft will likely remain a significant issue for the transportation and logistics industry. However, by staying informed about the latest threats and taking proactive steps to protect their assets, businesses can minimize their risk of theft and protect their bottom line.
Conclusion
Freight theft is a serious issue that can cause significant financial losses and operational disruptions for businesses in transportation and logistics. By implementing measures such as utilizing secure facilities and technology, conducting background checks, and developing a culture of security awareness, businesses can minimize their risk of theft and protect their assets.