While some criminals employ high-tech deceptions to steal cargo, most thieves are opportunists looking for drivers who have let down their guard. Because cargo thieves operate 24/7, drivers must take precautions and security measures to keep themselves safe and their loads secure at all times.
Cargo theft is conservatively a $30 billion (and growing) problem in the United States. Its impact is far-reaching – affecting drivers, fleets, shippers, insurance companies and consumers. Geographically, the states where cargo theft occurs most often are California, Texas, Georgia, Florida and New Jersey. And while thieves steal all kinds of loads, food and beverage items, electronics and household goods account for a large percentage of stolen cargo.
Drivers are often the first line of defense, and it helps to abide by the adage “know your enemy as you know yourself.”
Here are things thieves often look for:
- LAX SECURITY: Trucks parked in unsecured parking areas such as parking lots and roadsides are especially appealing.
- UNATTENDED LOADS: It’s no secret cargo thieves don’t want to draw attention to themselves. Approximately 90% of cargo thefts take place when trucks are stationary or unattended, according to SensiGuard, a cargo-theft-prevention firm. Anytime a thief figures out a driver is away from the load for an extended period, it’s a golden opportunity.
- LESS-THAN-TRUCKLOAD SHIPMENTS: Thieves tend to target LTL shipments for pilferage – the most popular type of cargo theft in the first half of 2019 – because the trucks make more stops.
- WORKING FOR THE WEEKEND: According to cargo-theft-recording firm CargoNet, almost half of cargo thefts occur between Friday and Sunday, with Friday being the most common day. A large number occur between 3 a.m. and 5 a.m.
- HOLIDAYS: According to SensiGuard, cargo-theft rings are more active on holiday weekends, with theft levels elevated as much as 40 percent compared with non-holiday weekends. Criminals take advantage of the additional time loads are left unattended while businesses are closed and drivers are off duty.
- LOOSE LIPS: Drivers discussing what they’re hauling in public places, usually truck stops, or on the Internet could tip off cargo-theft rings about high-dollar loads. The driver could then be followed.
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