Cargo Theft on the Rise; Holiday Season Warrants Extra Precaution

 

Increased cargo theft risk in the trucking industry during the upcoming holiday season is definitely a topic worth discussing.  During this time of year, there tends to be a surge in cargo theft incidents due to various factors.

 

One major factor contributing to the increased risk is the higher demand for goods and products during the holiday season.  As people shop for gifts and retailers stock up on inventory, there is a greater volume of valuable cargo being transported on the roads.  This increased volume creates more opportunities for thieves to target trucks carrying high-value goods.

 

Another factor is the extended holiday season, which provides thieves with more time to plan and execute their thefts.  With many businesses closing for the holidays, trucks may be left unattended for longer periods, making them more vulnerable to theft.  Additionally, the reduced traffic on the roads during holidays can make it easier for thieves to operate unnoticed.

 

Furthermore, the holiday season often sees an increase in temporary or seasonal workers in the trucking industry.  While most of these workers are reliable and trustworthy, the influx of new personnel can create opportunities for criminals to infiltrate the industry.  It's important for trucking companies to thoroughly vet and train their employees to minimize the risk of internal theft.

 

A recent report from CargoNet showed a 59% increase in cargo thefts in this year’s 3rd quarter compared to 3Q 2022.  Furthermore, over $31.1 million in shipments were stolen last quarter alone.

 

To combat the increased cargo theft risk, trucking companies can implement various security measures.  These may include using GPS tracking systems to monitor the location of trucks and cargo in real-time, installing surveillance cameras in trucks and warehouses, and employing security guards to protect high-value shipments.

 

Additionally, truck drivers can play a crucial role in preventing cargo theft by practicing good security habits.  This includes being vigilant and aware of their surroundings, avoiding high-risk areas, and following established protocols for securing cargo and parking overnight.

 

Here are some ways Road Scholar Transport is helping keep your high valued goods safe during transport:

*We are an asset-based carrier so you can be sure that a uniformed Road Scholar Transport representative who is constantly trained on the latest cargo theft threats is moving your freight, not an imposter.

*We’ve never suffered a full cargo loss in company history.

*Expedited services are available so that your product is not sitting on a dock for days.

*All shipment locations and temperature ranges are tracked and monitored real time via telematics.  Road Scholar uses track, trace, and temperature monitoring solutions to keep an electronic eye on freight.

*Geofencing capability-route and customer specific.

*24 x 7 dispatch and oversight.

*US customs approved Navalock-bolt cutter, sledgehammer and chisel proof.  We use the Babaco TRUK-LOC V on high-security loads.  A lock that CANNOT be shimmed, lost, cut, stolen, or forgotten.

*Dedicated use and teams.

*Electronic door monitoring providing e-mail alerting, online monitoring/reporting, on-demand GPS location, and complete coverage throughout North & Central America.

*Brightly colored and easily distinguishable awareness trucks.

Check out our high security transport page today.

In conclusion, the upcoming holiday season brings with it an increased risk of cargo theft in the trucking industry.  Factors such as higher demand, extended holiday periods, and an influx of temporary workers contribute to this heightened risk.  However, by implementing effective security measures and promoting awareness among truck drivers, the industry can work towards minimizing these risks and ensuring the safe transportation of goods during this busy time of year.

 

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