Cargo theft of freight trucks on the road has always been a prevalent threat to freight companies. And even though numbers are down, with the uptick in e-commerce and electronics pose a potential threat for trucking companies and their clients. Drivers will park their truck at a stop, go inside to rest, and then come out to an empty parking spot.
According to data, there were 157 cargo thefts reported in the second quarter of 2018 in the United States and Canada. The average cargo value per theft event came in at $187,000, totaling $29.3 million in losses in that quarter alone. With this in mind, it’s important to note how to minimize these risks. Here are some tips to do so.
Understand How Cargo Theft Occurs
The most important part of preventing cargo theft is by understanding how it occurs. With new ELD regulations set, truck drivers have to take more frequent stops, opening up more opportunities for theft to occur when they’re stopped. There are things drivers can do to protect cargo when they are stopped. Another thing to consider is understanding what is targeted, such as pharmaceuticals, food, and electronics.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Employers should provide training to prevent cargo theft and to know how to respond if drivers are put in a situation where freight is stolen. There should be a culture of education and security in every freight company, and all employees should be aware of cargo theft and hijacking.
Drivers should pay attention to their surroundings when they are stopped at a rest stop or truck stop. Be aware while your truck is parked and inquire with truck stop management as to the security on premises, including surveillance cameras and guards. Keep your truck in sights of the cameras as any footage may be able to capture the license plate or face of a thief or thieves.
Insure Your Truck
Trucking companies can protect not only the goods they are hauling but the drivers and the actual trucks themselves. Comprehensive motor truck cargo insurance is a full-spectrum approach to protecting these entities in the event of a theft. After you’re left picking up the pieces, so to speak, having motor truck cargo insurance in place will provide financial restoration after a loss.
Use Technology
GPS tracking devices and security seals are becoming more commonplace and prices are becoming more and more reasonable. GPS tracking devices can be placed on the vehicle and trailer as well as the goods inside the truck. If your truck falls victim to theft, it’s likely that a full loss won’t be taken and you may be able to recover some of all of the items that were taken.
It’s also important to use technology to boost communication between drivers and security in the company. If cargo is left unattended for a period of time, this should be made known. There are many different available resources available to keep trucks and trailers secure.
About Western Truck Insurance Services
Western Truck Insurance Services is a commercial truck insurance agency with roots dating back to 1954. We have evolved into a highly respected, professionally managed, truck and transportation insurance brokerage. The hallmark of our organization is our desire to provide unparalleled service. We go way beyond what you expect to receive from an insurance brokerage. Equipped with state of the art automation, Western Truck Insurance can provide you with lightning fast truck insurance quotes, customer service, Insurance certificates, and coverage changes.