How to Prevent Cargo Loss During Transit

Annually, shippers lose hundreds of millions of dollars due to theft. Despite their efforts to combat freight theft, it often feels like an uphill battle. In addition to theft, shippers also face other hazards such as high competition among carriers, missing or damaged goods, and lost cargo.

Key Strategies to Prevent Cargo Loss

To enhance cargo safety and minimize losses during transit, shippers and carriers can follow these essential guidelines:

1. Ensure Proper Vehicle Condition and Compatibility

The first rule is to ensure that the transport vehicle is in good condition and suitable for the type of cargo being carried. For instance, it would be inappropriate to transport televisions in a refrigerated truck. The vehicle and cargo type must also align with the vehicle's security system.

2. Maintain Confidentiality of Cargo Information

The driver responsible for the cargo must keep all information about the cargo and transport secure. Unauthorized individuals should not have access to this information. Limiting the number of people involved in the transportation process significantly reduces the risk of information being exploited for theft.

3. Optimize Route Planning and Driver Rest

Effective planning of the freight route, from loading to driver rest periods, is crucial. Adequate rest is as important as the work itself, as it affects the driver's attention and ability to avoid accidents. Drivers should not sleep in their cabs along the route. Instead, they should use inns with paid, guarded parking for trucks to prevent theft.

4. Maintain Constant Communication

Continuous communication between the driver and dispatcher is essential. Modern communication methods allow dispatchers to monitor vehicle movements in real-time. This reduces the temptation for drivers to deviate from the schedule and provides protection against criminal activities. If a vehicle is idle for an extended period or deviates from its intended path, the dispatcher can immediately address the issue.

The Importance of Collaboration

Establishing a quality trucking and dispatch system requires equal participation from both the dispatcher and the driver. The security chain largely depends on their coordination and mutual support.

Interesting Statistics

• According to the FBI, cargo theft costs the U.S. economy an estimated $15 to $30 billion annually (FBI).
• The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reported that in 2020, there were 1,676 cargo theft incidents in the United States, with an average loss value of $166,334 per incident (NICB).
• A study by the Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) found that 87% of cargo theft incidents occur when trucks are parked in unsecured locations (TAPA).

By following these guidelines and understanding the importance of collaboration and communication, shippers and transport companies can significantly reduce the risk of cargo loss during transit.