Cargo Theft Risk

Preventing Cargo Theft

LOAD AT REST IS A LOAD AT RISK - Sitting loads are at most risk. Today's equipment is modern, most transport companies have complex satellite locating devices mounted on their tractors, however not every company has those devices mounted onto the trailers they haul. Thieves know this, and target these trailers. Best parking spot, while parking your equipment is in a secure, live monitored yard. Thieves target sitting equipment, as theft charges are generally broke down to low amount of jail time and probation, while "jacking" a load can carry more severe fines. However, this doesn't mean you're in the clear. It is wise to always be on the lookout for crimes of opportunity, and attempt to avoid the situation in the first place.

BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS - When you're pulling into the truck stops, lock up your truck. There are a lot of people who do not do this, it's asking for trouble. You're giving thieves access to everything you have, including the documents to your load. Most cargo thefts occur during the weekend (especially Saturdays). According to U.S. statistical studies, truck stops and rest areas are the most targeted locations for cargo thefts – accounting for more than one-third of all reported incidents. Another risk places are modal yards and unsecured locations such as: drop lots, motel and restaurant parking lots, mall parking lots, and on-street sites.

CHECK YOUR MIRRORS OFTEN - We're not saying become paranoid, but pay attention to possible vehicles that may be following you. We know the shippers may take a long while to load you, but allot some time and fuel so you can put some distance between the shipper and your next sleep spot after you complete your loading and weighing processes. Try to make it not worth while to follow you.

TRY NOT TO STOP IN UNATTENDED LOW-LIT LOCATIONS - Pick a place where they have some form of security measure, like cameras or other forms of keeping you safe. Also, keep your truck locked and park it in an organized manner. While at rest stops, park tail-to-tail to block the entrance to the trailer, and prevent cargo thieves to access the product.

UTILIZE THEFT DETERRENTS - Plastic and aluminum seals are easy to break. This allows thieves to easily access your trailers with next to no tools. Think about a lock or a bolt seal in order to give them some resistance. For an increased level of theft deterrence, install king pin lock. Choose solid cast steel king pin lock that covers and locks the king pin to prevent unauthorized hook ups and prevent the tractor and trailer from being separated. It is also good idea to install air brake valve locks to prevent the truck and trailer brakes from being released. The quality air brake valve locks are usually made of high impact resistant polycarbonate material; they are portable and easy to install with no drilling or permanent installation parts required. And if you want to increase safety and prevent unauthorized or unintentional movement of a truck trailer, install gland hand locks.

NEVER DISCUSS WHAT YOU'RE HAULING! - The driver you're speaking to, or a lady sitting three chairs down from you may be a spotter. They listen to drivers conversations, then follow you to your truck if what you're hauling may peak their interest. They will "dime" on you, and just put a 53′ target on your back.

KNOW YOUR EQUIPMENT - Keep a card, a piece of paper whatever you can put information on, on your person. Have your truck information on it, like truck number, license plate, model, trailer number and license plate etc. This allows the police to get the broadcast out faster than it would be to get information from your dispatch. Keep in mind that criminals can move stolen goods very quickly, so immediately report all suspicious activity and/or theft to management and law enforcement officials. There might be a chance of recovery if you act fast.

NEVER TRY TO STOP A HIJACKER OR THEFT BY YOURSELF - You do not know if they're packing a weapon. If it happens to you, get away from there ASAP, call police and then call dispatch. Let them worry about getting the truck and/or cargo back. If you're in the sleeper, and unloading of your trailer has already commenced, do not allow yourself to be discovered awake. Pretend you're sleeping, and call the police immediately. It is always wise to know the location you're stopped at by business name, address, county and state. Police need this in order to help you.