{"id":12874,"date":"2023-12-29T07:47:54","date_gmt":"2023-12-29T14:47:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.englandlogistics.com\/?p=12874"},"modified":"2023-12-29T07:47:54","modified_gmt":"2023-12-29T14:47:54","slug":"freight-theft-at-a-high-guide-to-theft-prevention","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.englandlogistics.com\/freight-theft-at-a-high-guide-to-theft-prevention\/","title":{"rendered":"Freight Theft at a High: Guide to Theft Prevention"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/p>\n

In Q3 of 2023, CargoNet<\/a> reported that freight thieves had stolen over $31.1 million in shipments. Based on the median US income<\/a>, that\u2019s enough to sustain more than 400 families for a year.<\/p>\n

Unfortunately, Q3 represented an alarming trend for freight theft. As freight theft continues to increase, carriers should practice preventative measures to mitigate their risk of becoming victims.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Freight Theft at a High<\/u><\/h4>\n

CargoNet recorded 692<\/a> events in Q3, translating to a 59% increase in freight theft year over year.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n\"\"\n

Infographic courtesy of <\/em>CargoNet.<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n

This leap in theft is staggering. Regarding documented strategic cargo theft, the industry saw a 430% increase year over year. This increase matched the expectations of many sources that reported on the Kentucky cargo theft spike<\/a> in September.<\/p>\n

Though freight theft comes in many forms, CargoNet found that misdirection attacks<\/a> comprised the bulk of the theft incidents. Misdirection attacks involve fraudulent brokers misdirecting loads to locations where theft can take place. Most victims tended to be smaller trucking companies.<\/p>\n

Despite the enormous numbers comprising the Q3 report, CargoNet speculates that a lack of reporting likely stifles the actual instances of theft.<\/p>\n

With theft at such a historic high, many carriers are instituting heavier fraud prevention practices.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

How to Prevent Freight Theft<\/u><\/h4>\n

Education is the greatest prevention of tragedy. Above all, take the time to become familiar with the many varieties of freight crime. Try this freight crime guide<\/a> to get started.<\/p>\n

Once familiar with the different kinds of freight crime, try these best practices to keep your fleet safe:<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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  1. \n

    Be Cautious When Sharing Your Info<\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Carriers should exercise great caution when sharing information related to their cargo, schedule, or route.<\/p>\n

    Always ensure that the broker you are working with is licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration<\/a> to gauge their legitimacy. Look for common tell-tale signs of fraud, including illegitimate email, address, or telephone information.<\/p>\n

    Additionally, be cautious when posting on social media. Thieves will sometimes comb social media to determine a trucker\u2019s location.<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

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    1. \n

      Be Mindful of Where You Park Your Truck<\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      For a full guide on determining a safe place to stop for the night, review our How To Spot a Dangerous Truck Stop<\/a> guide.<\/p>\n

       <\/p>\n

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      1. \n

        Make a Habit of Inspecting Your Equipment<\/h4>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        When making the typical stops associated with a route, take time to inspect your truck and trailer for signs of tampering, including:<\/p>\n