With the Christmas and New Year holidays fast approaching, cargo theft is expected to spike, according to supply chain risk specialists. The extended holiday period, marked by limited operating hours at many facilities, creates vulnerabilities that thieves are ready to exploit.
Austin, Texas-based supply chain risk management company Overhaul warns that the period between Monday, Dec. 23, and Wednesday, Jan. 2, presents heightened risks for cargo theft. Shippers are urged to confirm the holiday schedules of all receiving facilities before dispatching deliveries. During this period, extended downtime can lead to valuable shipments being left unattended, offering plenty of opportunities for criminals. High-value products staged outside large retailers’ facilities are particularly at risk, with thieves targeting trailers for pilfering or outright theft.
Trends in Cargo Theft for 2024
Overhaul highlights a growing number of strategic thefts nationwide this year, alongside an increase in medium-to-large-scale thefts involving rail shipments. Cybercrime and phishing attempts are also on the rise as stricter security protocols force criminals to find more sophisticated ways to bypass defenses. The lengthy holiday break allows thieves more time to act before their crimes are detected.
Distribution centers and warehouses face heightened risks during this season. Many sites operate with minimal staffing during extended holiday hours, significantly reducing security and oversight. This creates a window for thieves to execute thefts with less chance of immediate discovery.
Target Goods and Risk Reduction Tips
Shippers handling high-risk products, including consumer electronics, luxury apparel, alcohol, tires, and expensive food items, need to exercise extra caution in the weeks ahead. Enhanced security measures, proper risk assessments, and advanced planning are critical to prevent theft during these vulnerable times.
Overhaul suggests several proactive measures to reduce risks:
- Carefully vet brokers, carriers, and drivers involved in each shipment.
- Document all shipment details thoroughly.
- Confirm receiving facilities’ holiday operating hours and reschedule shipments if necessary to avoid staging outside premises.
Proper preparation and due diligence can go a long way in ensuring the safe delivery of valuable goods during the holidays. By tightening security and adjusting operations, shippers can mitigate risk and prevent unnecessary loss throughout this high-crime period.
Source: Truckers News
