A Shared Struggle for Trucking Companies

“Directly or indirectly, virtually all trucking companies are victims of cargo theft. Either they are victims of crime, or they are spending so much money to defend against being targeted that they are still victims,” said Costello. “ATA looks forward to working with committee members to safeguard the entire supply chain, including trucking, to protect businesses and their employees as well as lower costs for consumers.”

Congress has recurringly focused on cargo theft, with ATA stepping in as an essential voice twice in under two months.

The Staggering Cost of Cargo Theft

According to ATA data, freight-related crimes cost the supply chain up to $35 billion annually, indirectly driving up consumer prices. Since early 2021, “strategic theft” has skyrocketed by 1,500%, with the average value of stolen shipments exceeding $200,000 per incident.

Cargo theft takes various forms, from breaking into parked tractor-trailers and double-brokering fraud to cyberattacks and long-term pilfering. Criminals increasingly use advanced digital tactics to outwit carriers.

During testimony earlier this year, Adam Blanchard, an ATA member, shared a firsthand account of cargo theft. Blanchard’s company fell victim to identity theft and related fraud. Despite reporting the crimes to insurance providers, local law enforcement agencies, the FBI, and the Department of Homeland Security, little actionable support was provided.

A Complex Crime Demanding Federal Action

“Due to the complex, multi-jurisdictional nature of these crimes, only the federal government has the resources and technical capabilities to take down organized theft groups,” ATA stated in a press release.

Recognizing this challenge, ATA recently endorsed the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act, designed to establish a unified federal response to these transnational crimes. ATA emphasized that organized cargo theft rings often operate across state and national boundaries, which demands a cohesive, large-scale federal strategy.

As part of its 2024 agenda, ATA has also prioritized security measures, including the fight against cargo theft and cybercrime, as essential pillars supporting the trucking industry and protecting businesses and consumers.

Cargo theft is no longer just a trucking issue; it’s a supply chain-wide crisis with profound national economic implications. Addressing this threat is crucial for businesses and lawmakers alike to ensure a more stable, secure, and cost-efficient flow of goods.

Source: The Trucker
Image Source: ATA

The post ATA Advocates Against Rising Cargo Theft appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Addressing a Critical Concern

“The industry saw unprecedented levels of cargo theft last year, up 27% from the previous year and a 1,500% increase since 2001,” said Shannon Newton, president of ATA. “These laws demonstrate that Arkansas lawmakers understand the economic threat organized retail crime and cargo theft pose to our industry and all consumers.”

The ATA highlights how the collaboration between policymakers, industry leaders, and officials like Attorney General Griffin was instrumental in the success of this legislative package, which seeks to deter cargo theft and strengthen supply chain security.

A Priority for the Trucking Sector

Sponsored by Sen. Ben Gilmore (R-Crossett) and Rep. Jeremiah Moore (R-Clarendon), and strongly supported by the Arkansas Attorney General’s office, the organized retail crime initiative targets a pressing issue for the trucking industry. The legislation received broad bipartisan backing as it advanced through the legislature.

“By recognizing that organized crime operates throughout the supply chain, from retail stores to transportation networks, this collaboration has produced meaningful legislation that will better protect Arkansas businesses and consumers,” Newton said. “We remain committed to working with our partners to develop practical solutions to the challenges facing our industry.”

Key Features of the Organized Retail Crime Policy

• A structured plan addressing organized retail theft networks (Act 321).

• Up to 10 additional years of penalties for organized cargo theft (Act 322).

• Prohibition of earned release credits for the enhanced portion of sentences related to cargo theft (Act 322).

• Coverage of all cargo in transit, including trucks, railroads, and intermodal containers (Act 322).

• Criminal penalties for fraudulent gift card schemes based on redemption value (SB302).

• Immediate enforcement supported by an emergency declaration.

A Strong Warning Against Cargo Theft

“This comprehensive legislation sends a clear message that organized retail crime and cargo theft will not be tolerated in Arkansas and will be met with serious consequences,” Newton emphasized.

With the passage of these laws, Arkansas positions itself as a leader in supply chain security, reinforcing the importance of collaboration to combat organized crime and protect both businesses and consumers.

Source: The Trucker

The post Arkansas Trucking Industry Celebrates New Anti-Cargo Theft Legislation appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.