The Rising Threat of Motor Carrier Number Manipulation

 Cargo theft is an evolving threat, and one growing trend is Motor Carrier (MC) Number Manipulation.  This method involves cargo thieves purchasing MC numbers from legitimate trucking companies and using them to steal freight, often with devastating consequences.  Trusted by brokers, these criminals impersonate the original carriers to steal loads before abandoning the MC number.

Scott Cornell of Travelers explains that these schemes have surged, particularly post-COVID, as many truckers sold their MC numbers after spot rates peaked.  Thieves are exploiting this market, luring unsuspecting brokers into fraudulent deals and pilfering high-value goods.  Cornell notes, “They’re real in the sense that they have trucks and an MC number, but their intent is nefarious.”

Why MC Number Manipulation is on the Rise

MC numbers are essential for conducting business in the trucking industry, and older numbers carry more credibility, especially among brokers.  However, with the economic decline and more independent operators exiting the market, many sold their MC numbers, not realizing they were enabling organized theft.  While these criminals once engaged in opportunistic theft, today's operations are highly strategic and well-funded.

Brokers must remain vigilant when engaging carriers, ensuring they verify all credentials and keeping a close eye on any suspicious changes.  A simple confirmation call to the original carrier can prevent what Cornell calls the "million-dollar phone call"—the key moment when fraudulent carriers pick up shipments on behalf of legitimate trucking companies.

Protecting Shipments: The Need for High-Security Carriers

As cargo theft evolves, securing freight becomes even more critical, especially during the high-demand peak shipping seasons.  Road Scholar Transport, a company known for its strong reputation since 1988, is committed to safeguarding against such theft.  With advanced GPS tracking, 24/7 monitoring, and fully secured fleets, Road Scholar minimizes the risk of cargo theft.  In urgent situations, our expedited shipping service ensures timely and secure delivery, helping businesses safeguard their goods and meet tight deadlines.

Given today's cargo theft challenges, working with a reputable carrier like Road Scholar Transport is critical.  Learn more about our security-focused services on our high-security shipping and expedited shipping pages.

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