Stay Ahead of the Threat with Smarter Security Practices
Cargo theft has surged across the U.S. in the last 18 months, with organized groups targeting parked trucks, unsecured yards, and even digital dispatch systems. From electronics and pharmaceuticals to food and building materials, no load is safe if you’re not proactive.
At Allcom Insurance, we’ve seen firsthand how one stolen trailer can cost a carrier hundreds of thousands of dollars — not to mention long-term damage to your FMCSA scores and client relationships. That’s why we put together these 10 field-tested strategies for keeping your freight secure.
🚛 1. Use High-Security Seals & Locks
Invest in tamper-evident, ISO 17712-compliant seals and heavy-duty trailer locks. Many thefts are crimes of opportunity — solid physical deterrents go a long way.
🧭 2. Avoid High-Theft Hotspots
Plan routes around known theft zones. Cities like Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, and Atlanta consistently rank highest for cargo theft incidents. Night parking in unsecured lots in these areas? Big risk.
📱 3. Limit Load Info Sharing
Avoid posting detailed load information on public forums or social media. Thieves monitor online platforms, load boards, and dispatch chatter.
🕵️ 4. Validate Pickup Identity
Always confirm identity and paperwork of anyone picking up a load — fake drivers and stolen MC numbers are a growing tactic.
🛑 5. Use "Red Zone" Parking Protocols
Instruct drivers to avoid stopping within the first 200–250 miles after pickup — this is prime time for tailing and surveillance by cargo thieves.
💻 6. Enable Geofencing & Live Tracking
Use telematics to create geofences and get alerts for unauthorized movement or long stops outside approved zones.
⏰ 7. Avoid Weekend Layovers
Cargo theft spikes on weekends and holidays when response times are slower. Avoid holding high-value freight over long weekends.
👁️ 8. Train Drivers to Spot Surveillance
Encourage awareness of vehicles that follow too long, loiter near loading docks, or approach during stops. If something feels off, it probably is.
📄 9. Keep Documentation Off the Dashboard
Bill of lading details, destination addresses, and commodity types should never be left visible in the cab.
🤝 10. Review Insurance Coverage with a Pro
Standard cargo policies may not fully cover certain commodities or theft scenarios. Allcom can help review your coverage and close any gaps.
Final Thought
Cargo theft is no longer a backlot problem — it’s a full-scale, tech-enabled risk that’s hitting fleets of every size. The good news? A few key changes to your driver protocols, technology, and communication can drastically reduce your exposure.
📞 Want to review your theft coverage or learn how to train your team on secure hauling?
Call Allcom Insurance at 866-277-9049 to schedule your free risk review.
Let’s keep your freight moving — and protected.
