Be wary of increased cargo theft activity over Memorial Day weekend

CargoNet and SensiGuard are warning fleets and truckers of increased cargo theft activity over the Memorial Day holiday period. (CargoNet photo)CargoNet and SensiGuard are warning fleets and truckers of increased cargo theft activity over the Memorial Day holiday period. (CargoNet photo)

Cargo theft recording firms SensiGuard and CargoNet are warning truck drivers and fleets of increased theft activity during the Memorial Day holiday period, defined as the Thursday, May 23, through Tuesday, May 28.

During the Memorial Day periods between 2013 and 2018, CargoNet received reports of 126 cargo thefts in the U.S. and Canada in 24 states and provinces. According to the firm’s records – which it receives from law enforcement, insurance companies and more – cargo theft most commonly occurred on Friday and Saturday during that six-year period.

SensiGuard says it has recorded cargo theft rates up to 43% higher and average loss values up to 253% higher during Memorial Day weekends when compared to non-holiday weekends.

Both firms recommend drivers and fleets avoid leaving loads unattended in high-theft metropolitan areas and by using secured lots. Drivers should also look out for vehicles following them as they leave warehouses with goods and contact police to report any suspicious activity, CargoNet says.

SensiGuard also suggests using theft-resistant locking/sealing mechanisms for tractors, trailers and cargo compartments and parking in a way that makes access to the cargo as difficult as possible. Additionally, the firm suggests using tracking technology, such as GPS monitoring, on the truck, trailer and in the cargo itself, if possible.

Some notable Memorial Day cargo thefts in recent years include:

  • $5.7 million in jewelry in Kentucky
  • $2.9 million in cell phone accessories in Tennessee
  • $2.5 million in cosmetics in New Jersey
  • $1.5 million in tablets in Delaware
  • $1.2 million in seafood in New Jersey