Preventing cargo theft is a critical issue for the logistics industry, affecting everyone involved: shippers, carriers, 3PLs, warehouse operators, consignees, and more. Cargo theft doesn’t just result in financial losses; it disrupts supply chains, delays deliveries, and damages relationships.
Through coordination and a collective effort by all parties involved in moving freight, cargo theft can be prevented—thus helping maintain the integrity and efficiency of logistics ecosystems. Let’s consider some tips for keeping freight safe and moving supply chains smoothly forward.
Today, cargo theft frequently occurs as indirect theft, rather than direct theft. Direct theft occurs when a trailer is stolen or broken into opportunistically, whereas indirect theft involves deceiving a shipper into believing a fake transaction is legitimate. Checking IDs and confirming carriers with your 3PL are safeguards against this threat.
With freight shipping having become a digital business, new opportunities exist for potential cargo thieves to access sensitive financial or load information. Make sure your entire team is up-to-date on cybersecurity best practices, and consider implementing technology solutions like electronic logging devices (ELDs), RFID tags, and blockchain technology. These safety measures can then be overlapped by tactics like access controls, GPS trackers, surveillance cameras, and commercial vehicle alarms.
Freight is most susceptible to theft when it is not on the road. To minimize these vulnerable windows, schedule shipments smartly so your freight is not left unattended over a weekend, for example. Additionally, since thefts are most likely to occur in the first 200 miles after picking up cargo, ask your carrier to arrange the first pit stop only after traveling that distance.
Commonsense safety measures are still effective, too, such as parking in well-lit areas, monitored by security cameras if possible. And shipment details should never be discussed with anyone outside of the applicable logistics supply chain.
Finally, choose your collaborating providers carefully, ensuring they take security seriously. In this regard, W.I.S. Logistics has established an elite category of trustworthy Core Carriers who have proven to uphold our high standards for safety, but also in efficiency, dependability, and customer service.
With strong procedural controls and a proactive mindset, plus the implementation of technology, the risk of cargo theft can be significantly reduced. Let W.I.S. Logistics become your partner in theft prevention—reach out today to discuss your needs.