Cargo theft and fraud in transportation remain relevant issues today. Carriers face various forms of cargo fraud. The stress and potential losses transport companies might suffer are significant and can seriously disrupt the business's financial stability.
Cargo is most vulnerable to theft during vehicle stops or driver breaks. Let's find out how to secure cargo against theft.
Methods for securing cargo during transport
➡️ First and foremost, use various types of protections that will extend the time it takes for potential thieves to steal the cargo, giving you crucial minutes to call for help.
Seals, padlocks, and special locks can effectively make access to the cargo more difficult.
Remember to inspect the security devices thoroughly before departure. It may turn out that the protections deterred the thieves but as a result, were violated.
It’s worth noting that, by law, the carrier is responsible for the cargo being transported.
➡️ Plan way stations only at secure parking areas.
If you're unsure about a location, it's worth asking other drivers for recommendations.
A well-planned route minimizes the risk of theft.
➡️ Equip the cargo with GPS tracking, which allows real-time monitoring. It will be easy to enable recovery by law enforcement if the cargo is stolen
➡️ Ensure all documentation is completed accurately.
If the cargo is stolen, it will be easy to specify exactly how much was taken, helping to avoid disputes with the recipient.
Also, make sure to obtain a document confirming receipt of the cargo.
➡️ Make sure your drivers are trained in safety procedures.
This will help them stay calm in crises, act quickly, and most importantly, reduce the risk of unpleasant incidents.
➡️ Ensure that the cargo is insured.
The cost of a policy is relatively low compared to the potential financial and reputational losses that cargo theft can cause.
➡️ Only work with trusted partners.
If theft or cargo fraud occurs, immediately notify the authorities. Acting on your own could have the opposite effect.
Photo by Tobias Tullius on Unsplash
Comments