last updated 03-09-2025
by FreightPrint
During a recent conversation with Terry, a logistics manager, it became clear that he was deeply troubled by a pressing issue: freight cargo theft. When I asked how I could assist him, he posed a critical question: “Is there a way to find out how my cargo got stolen?” This incident had occurred twice within the past month, raising alarm bells about the security of his shipments.
According to the FBI, cargo theft is a multi-billion dollar problem, costing trucking companies and retailers between $15 billion and $30 billion annually. This rampant issue not only affects individual businesses like Terry's but also contributes to broader supply chain disruptions, exacerbating inflation.
Terry shared that, despite insurance coverage for most of his losses, his trust in trucking companies is waning. He had relied on brokers to verify the carriers transporting his goods but found this approach insufficient.
While it's reasonable to expect third-party logistics providers (3PLs) to handle verification, this approach does not effectively address the problem of stolen cargo. Terry expressed a desire for an easier method to verify the trucks arriving at his warehouse. I proposed the implementation of a robust check-in system for drivers, akin to the protocols airlines use to verify passengers boarding flights.
After discussing the challenges with Terry, we outlined several key measures to mitigate the risks associated with freight theft.
Ensuring accurate freight data is crucial. It’s not only about having digital records but also about validating their authenticity. When a broker assigns a carrier to a load, both the shipper and broker should confirm the legitimacy of the transaction.
Clear communication is vital during the shipping process. When a carrier loads cargo, the shipper should promptly notify the customer with photographic proof. Additionally, the carrier should sign the Bill of Lading (BOL) or Load Manifest, confirming possession of the cargo.
Establishing a straightforward way to conduct audits of any shipment at any time is essential. An effective audit trail should include timestamps, location data, signatures, photos, and detailed notes, providing invaluable information when issues arise.
As the logistics industry increasingly digitizes processes, the risk of freight cargo theft escalates unless proactive measures are taken. Thieves can easily monitor freight movements and impersonate legitimate companies to misappropriate loads.
While Terry acknowledges that he may not completely eliminate the risk of cargo theft, he firmly believes that implementing an accountability system can significantly reduce the likelihood of future incidents.
If Terry's story resonates with you and you're interested in exploring how these freight tracking solutions could benefit your operations, don't hesitate to reach out.
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Are you managing your logistics operations manually or using outdated and confusing software?
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FreightPrint™ is an AI-powered logistics software built to boost your transportation and delivery operations
We know logistics is complicated and time-consuming.
Imagine delivering orders to your customers with consistency, accuracy and simplicity.
If you're looking to streamline your shipping and logistics operations, FreightPrint™ could help you a lot!
Read below to learn more about key features and benefits of FreightPrint™.
Imagine processing customer orders, automatically creating optimized routes, communicating with drivers and customers, all without spending any extra time.
▸ Dispatch Loads
Dispatch loads on the go or schedule to dispatch for a future date. Work with carriers, brokers, dispatchers and shippers all from one platform.
▸ Automated Routes
Pick multiple shipments and create routes instantly. Assign drop numbers, edit or remove stops without contacting the drivers.
▸ Driver Assignment
Assign a task or a route to a driver. Don't know who can do the delivery? Allow drivers to pick their loads, or broadcast loads to your carriers and have them bid on your loads.
Free up your phone lines and staff, while meeting and exceeding your customers’ expectations. Spend your precious time closing more deals and going on vacation.
▸ Provide Shipment Tracking
While the FreightPrint™ app provides status updates and other useful information, it can also provide you with shipment tracking.
▸ Collect Signatures, Pictures and Notes
Create an audit trail of shipment statuses with timestamps and location stamps.Receive proof of delivery signature and pictures instantly.
Create and design your own shipping documents. Create templates for your customers to match their specifications.
▸ Print Labels
Create, desigsn and print QR code labels. Add QR codes to your shipping documents and emails. Update shipments by simply scanning labels using your phone.
▸ Design and Customize Documents
Create and design your own shipping documents. Whether it's BOL, POD, rate confirmation or any other customized documents, our document creation tool can help you.
No software is built to perfectly fit everyone's needs, and that’s why we allow you to customize it. FreightPrint is flexible to serve your business needs.
▸ Use API and Automation
Create custom fields and custom checklists to ensure your team can track progress. Connect with SalesForce and OrderTime natively, integrate with your own in-house software using our API, or build automation with Zapier.
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With FreightPrint’s mobile app, you can print and scan labels conveniently by using your phone and a QR code. Improve your logistic processes right now.
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