Risks of cargo thefts increase during the Thanksgiving holiday, making it a critical time for supply chain operations to stay alert. CargoNet, a leader in cargo theft prevention, has released a report highlighting trends and offering tips for transportation companies. Their findings show that the six-day period from the Tuesday before Thanksgiving through the following Monday is especially risky.
Cargo Thefts: Trends Over Thanksgiving
CargoNet’s report found 174 major thefts during the Thanksgiving holiday window over the past five years. Thieves took advantage of the holiday disruptions, often using schemes like identity fraud to commit their crimes.
The most active day for theft was the Monday after Thanksgiving. This day also showed a spike in identity fraud complaints, suggesting that criminals use this time to exploit weaker security practices.
Hotspots for Cargo Theft
The report identified the most theft-prone regions as:
- San Bernardino County, California
- Los Angeles County, California
- Cook County, Illinois
These areas, which serve as major logistics hubs, are frequent targets for criminals.
What Thieves Are Stealing
Certain types of goods are stolen more often than others during this period. The report highlights these commonly targeted items:
- Freight-All-Kinds (FAK) shipments.
- Hard liquor.
- Vehicle accessories, such as tires and motor oil.
Criminals choose these items because of their high demand on the black market. This pattern points to organized crime networks operating within the supply chain.
Criminals Are Getting Smarter
CargoNet warns that criminals are using more advanced methods to steal cargo. In 2024, there were already over 450 reported attempts of fictitious pickups. This type of fraud involves thieves pretending to be legitimate carriers to take control of shipments.
Even though the industry has made progress in stopping traditional identity fraud, criminals are finding new ways to bypass safeguards.
Why Thanksgiving is a Risky Time for Cargo Thefts
The Thanksgiving holiday creates conditions that make the supply chain more vulnerable:
- Facilities are closed for several days, leaving shipments unprotected.
- Fewer staff are on duty, reducing oversight.
- Disruptions to normal routines give criminals more opportunities to strike.
These factors combine to make it easier for thieves to target cargo.
Tips to Protect Your Shipments
CargoNet has shared important steps transportation companies can take to reduce theft risks during Thanksgiving:
Verify Shipments Carefully
Double-check the identity of anyone handling shipments, especially in high-risk areas like California and Illinois.
Focus on Protecting High-Risk Goods
Pay extra attention to securing hard liquor, vehicle parts, and FAK shipments.
Boost Cybersecurity
Use tools to ensure driver credentials and shipment details are legitimate.
Strengthen Facility Security
Add extra locks, cameras, or guards at locations that will close for the holiday.
Staying Safe This Thanksgiving
The Thanksgiving holiday brings unique risks for cargo theft. Criminals use this time to exploit the vulnerabilities in the supply chain.
To learn more, read CargoNet’s Thanksgiving Cargo Theft Trends Infographic and Security Tips PDF or the full report.
By taking these security measures, companies can protect their shipments and avoid significant losses during the holiday season.
Vincent ShakirNovember 25, 20242 Mins read2.1k
