Cargo Theft Trends Show Big Surge This Year

Memorial Day Cargo Theft Risk Reaches Record High in 2025

Cargo theft across the country is rising as Memorial Day weekend nears. According to a new advisory from CargoNet, theft activity in 2025 has reached record-breaking levels. Reports show an average of 338 theft incidents per month this year. That’s more than double the monthly average before the current crime wave began in late 2022.

CargoNet looked at 159 cargo theft events that took place between the Thursday before Memorial Day and the Wednesday after, over the past five years. The numbers show a clear upward trend. There were 35 reported thefts during this period in 2020. In 2021, there were 28. By 2023, the number rose to 41. In 2024, there were 39.

“This steady increase mirrors the overall surge in cargo theft we’ve observed throughout the supply chain,” said Keith Lewis, Vice President of Operations at CargoNet.

States and Counties Most Affected

California, Texas, and Florida continue to lead the country in Memorial Day cargo theft incidents. Within these states, several counties stand out. San Bernardino and Los Angeles counties in California, and Dallas County in Texas, saw the highest number of holiday-related thefts.

In 2025, Southern California remains the hardest-hit region. Other major theft hotspots include the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the Chicagoland region, and Phoenix. These are key logistics centers and frequent targets for organized theft groups.

“We’re seeing increasingly sophisticated operations targeting these logistics hotspots,” said Lewis. “Criminal organizations are well aware of where high-value shipments are most likely to be found and are exploiting vulnerabilities in these areas.”

Changing Targets: 2025 Cargo Theft Trends

In past years, cargo thieves mostly targeted items like energy drinks, large appliances, and mixed consumer goods bound for big retailers. These items remain at risk, but thieves have shifted their focus in 2025.

This year, there’s a noticeable increase in cargo theft involving copper, vehicle accessories, and meat products. Energy drinks and alcoholic beverages are still commonly stolen. Footwear has also become a more frequent target.

“Cargo thieves have adapted quickly to shifts in market demand and product value,” Lewis noted.

Theft Risk Spikes Around Holidays

CargoNet warns that the risk of cargo theft increases right after Memorial Day. Many businesses close for the holiday, leaving loaded trailers parked and unattended. This gives thieves a prime opportunity to act without being detected.

“Holiday weekends consistently create perfect opportunities for cargo thieves,” said Lewis.

Some of the highest-value thefts recorded during past Memorial Day weekends include:

• $3.97 million in pharmaceuticals stolen in Clermont, Florida
• $1.6 million in pharmaceuticals, also in Clermont
• $1 million in electronics stolen in Kennesaw, Georgia
• $934,798 in electronics stolen in North Las Vegas, Nevada

Cargo Theft Prevention: CargoNet’s Security Tips

To help reduce the risk of cargo theft over the holiday, CargoNet is urging companies to tighten their security. Their recommended steps include:

• Avoid parking in unsecured or unattended areas
• Limit the time that loaded trailers are left idle
• Make sure all security systems are working properly
• Hold security briefings with drivers and staff
• Use layered cargo theft prevention tools like locks and GPS tracking
• Report any suspicious activity as soon as possible

“The combination of record-high theft rates and a major holiday weekend creates significant risk for the supply chain,” said Lewis. “By understanding the patterns and implementing proactive security measures, companies can substantially reduce their vulnerability during this critical period.”

CargoNet’s full advisory includes more details on cargo theft trends and further prevention tips. It is available now on their website.