How Can Businesses Protect Against the Rising Risk of Cargo Theft?
How Can Businesses Protect Against the Rising Risk of Cargo Theft?
Cargo theft is on the rise, with organized criminals targeting goods in transit more frequently—and more creatively—than ever before. From food shipments to high-end electronics, no sector is immune.
Key Takeaway: Cargo theft is a growing threat for businesses that transport goods. Proactive prevention, employee training, and specialized insurance can minimize losses and protect your operations.
The 100,000 Egg Heist: A Case That Cracked Open Industry Risk
In early 2025, thieves stole nearly 100,000 eggs from a Pete & Gerry’s Organics trailer parked at a distribution facility in Greencastle, Pennsylvania. The stolen shipment, valued at $40,000, highlights a serious threat to supply chains—especially as demand and pricing pressures continue to climb due to outbreaks and disruptions.
Cargo Theft Is Surging Across the U.S.
According toVerisk CargoNet’s 2024 analysis, North America experienced 3,625 reported cargo theft incidents in 2024, totaling nearly $455 million in losses. Key insights include:
- Average cost per theft: $200,000+
- Hotspot states: California, Texas, Illinois
- Common targets: Warehouses, truck stops, and distribution centers
- Most stolen items: Construction materials, electronics, clothing, pharmaceuticals, and food
Notable Cargo Theft Cases
𥾠The Nike Train Heist
Thieves stole over $2 million in sneakers from freight trains in California and Arizona. Tactics included tampering with air hoses and looting railcars at remote stops.
𧸠The Toy Scam
Impersonators posing as legitimate carriers diverted a shipment of $1 million worth of toys, which later appeared on third-party sites ahead of Black Friday.
ð¾ The Tequila Hijacking
Two truckloads of premium Santo tequila were stolen using spoofed GPS signals. The loss totaled over $1 million in retail value.
5 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Cargo Theft
1. Conduct Thorough Risk Assessments
Identify vulnerabilities in your shipping routes, transportation methods, and product types. Make adjustments based on known theft hotspots and threats.
2. Strengthen Supply Chain Security
- Use advanced GPS and geofencing
- Require secure, monitored parking locations
- Vet all brokers and logistics partners thoroughly
- Secure cargo with high-quality seals and locks
Explore BDI’sContractor Insurance solutions to protect your goods and your reputation.
3. Train Your Team
Educate employees on how to:
- Verify shipment instructions
- Detect fraudulent carriers
- Respond to suspicious behavior Training should be updated as new tactics and threats emerge.
4. Collaborate With Law Enforcement and Security Experts
Establish connections with local authorities and industry watchdogs. They can offer intel on recent theft activity in your region and help identify trends early.
5. Secure Comprehensive Insurance Coverage
Consider commercial crime, inland marine, or motor truck cargo policies. Regularly review limits to ensure they reflect your cargo’s current value.
How BDI Can Help
At Barnard Donegan Insurance, we help businesses like yours stay a step ahead of risk—because prevention is always more affordable than recovery.
Our team will help you:
- Identify gaps in cargo protection
- Customize your coverage for high-theft zones
- Partner with trusted carriers and service providers
Protect your cargo before it leaves the dock.Contact us todayto review your risk exposure and policy options.
People Also Asked
1. What industries are most at risk for cargo theft? Industries transporting food, construction materials, electronics, and apparel are prime targets due to the high value and ease of resale.
2. How can businesses prevent cargo theft? Use GPS tracking, vet transportation partners, train staff, and lock down your chain of custody with strict security protocols.
3. Does commercial insurance cover cargo theft? It can—if you have the right policies. Commercial crime, inland marine, and motor truck cargo insurance are designed to protect against theft-related losses.
