Freight Cargo Theft and Solutions

last updated 03-09-2025
by FreightPrint


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Addressing Freight Cargo Theft: Effective Solutions for the Logistics Industry



The Growing Concern of Freight Cargo Theft


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.



Understanding the Financial Impact


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.



The Need for Enhanced Verification and Accountability


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.



Proposed Solutions to Combat Freight Cargo Theft


After discussing the challenges with Terry, we outlined several key measures to mitigate the risks associated with freight theft.



1. Improve Freight Data Validation


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.



2. Enhance Communication During Shipment


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.



3. Implement Comprehensive Audit Trails


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.



Conclusion: A Call to Action for Logistics Professionals


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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About FreightPrint

Are you managing your logistics operations manually or using outdated and confusing software?

FreightPrint can help!

FreightPrint™ is an AI-powered logistics software built to boost your transportation and delivery operations

 

 

Easy-to-use logistics technology for any business

Built to simplify your logistics 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™.




 

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Automated Dispatching, Routing & Tracking

Seamlessly Dispatch and Manage Routes

 

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.




 

Provide Shipment Tracking and Proof of Delivery

 

Improve your Delivery Experience

 

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.




 

Print Labels & Manage Documents

 

Manage your Documents

 

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.





 

Customize using API, Zapier and Native Integrations

Customize and Personalize

 

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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We're here to assist you with your transportation software needs. Whether you are a small shipper or big transportation company, we'd be happy to give you a free demo of FreightPrint and answer your questions.

 


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