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PREVENT CARGO THEFT OVER THANKSGIVING - MatrixTrucks.com

PREVENT CARGO THEFT OVER THANKSGIVING

November 23 2020

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Matrix, Inc warns the trucking industry of expected increased theft activity during the Thanksgiving holiday period. Compared with last year, trucking volumes initially increased by about 30 percent in 2020 as a result of Covid-19. More freight on the road means bigger theft activity. Especially during the holidays. Following the tips from this article, can help you prevent cargo theft over Thanksgiving.

Since 2010, over three thefts per day occur during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend; an increase of 27% compared to the annual average of 2.4 thefts per non-holiday day, according to a new report.

“Organized theft rings are always active and recognize that holiday weekends can lead to shipments being unattended for prolonged periods of time,”  FreightWatch International noted.

CargoNet , a theft recording firm, reviewed trucking theft data from the Tuesday before Thanksgiving through the Monday after Thanksgiving for 2015 to 2019.

 “There were 144 trucks, trailers, chassis, and containers stolen. Theft events were highest in California, Texas, and Georgia, but theft events were recorded in 24 states and provinces. Theft activity peaked on the day before Thanksgiving with 23 events, but activity was also high on the Friday and Saturday following with 21 events each,” the company said.

Another cargo theft report is during the 2014 Thanksgiving weekend totaling over $930,000 in reported losses.

Some of the most tempting targeted items for stealing are televisions, alcoholic beverages and major appliances.

SECURITY TIPS FOR DRIVERS

  1. Invest in high-security locks and seals to prevent trailer burglaries
  2. Don’t talk about your load on the citizens’ band radio — cargo thieves listen, too.
  3. When possible, go directly to your delivery point without making any stops.
  4. When you need a rest stop, park in areas where other truckers are present.Hijackers don’t like crowds.
  5. Don’t stop on dark freeways or in deserted areas while waiting to make deliveries.
  6. Be suspicious of individuals asking you to stop as a result of an alleged traffic accident. Hijackers frequently use this ruse to get drivers to stop. If you are unsure that an accident occurred, drive to a police station or well-lit, busy intersection before stopping.
  7. Consider installing fuel cut-off valves, tracking systems, and other security devices on your equipment. Heavy-duty padlocks should be mandatory on all trailer and container doors.
  8. Paint tractor or trailer numbers on roofs so they are visible from the air.

Be careful on the road , stay safe and enjoy Thanksgiving!