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As Thanksgiving approaches on November 28th, shippers in the United States should be aware
of the limited holiday hours of operation for receiving facilities. It is crucial that shippers confirm
the holiday hours of operation for all receiving facilities before loads scheduled to deliver
between November 25th and the 29th are allowed to depart.
Thieves are aware that cargo will be left unattended for extended durations during this time and
will use the opportunity to obtain targeted and high-value merchandise. These thieves will use
various tactics to steal cargo, including using fraudulent and deceptive methods to obtain
freight under the guise of legitimate businesses. The extended holiday weekend can provide a
longer lead time before the theft is discovered, making it easier for thieves to get away with
their crimes. Specifically, receiving facilities will see trailers staged outside of the facility
targeted for pilferage or straight theft. Therefore, shippers should take extra precautions to
ensure the safety and security of their cargo during this time and avoid extended staging
outside of delivery.
Shippers should also be aware of the increased risk of driver confrontation and pilferage when
drivers park overnight outside of their delivery location. Thieves are known to target drivers
who park overnight outside of their delivery location, especially during the Thanksgiving holiday
weekend. These thieves will often use tactics such as following the driver to their parking
location, waiting until the driver is asleep, and then breaking into the trailer to steal the cargo.
In some cases, thieves may confront the driver and use force or threats to steal the cargo. This
type of driver confrontation and pilferage can be particularly dangerous for drivers, as they may
be at risk of physical harm or injury.
To reduce the risk of driver confrontation and pilferage, shippers should encourage their drivers
to park in secure locations with adequate lighting and security measures. Drivers should also be
trained to be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement
or their employer. Additionally, shippers can use GPS tracking devices to monitor the location of
their cargo and ensure that it is not being diverted or stolen.
The first quarter of 2024 saw a significant increase in cargo theft, with a 46% rise when
compared to the first quarter of 2023 and a 10% increase over the fourth quarter of 2023.
Strategic thefts continue to increase, with cargo theft crews growing more sophisticated in
response to increasing security measures from shippers. Organized cargo theft crews are
practicing fraudulent and deceptive methods to obtain freight, making it more challenging for
shippers to protect their cargo. Distribution centers and warehouses will also be targeted more
aggressively during this time as the extended holiday often means limited, if not zero operation
and less security staff.
Shippers of targeted cargo such as consumer electronics, high-end clothing and footwear,
alcohol, cost-dense food items, and viral consumer products should be especially diligent in
their security measures during this time. It is recommended that shippers use GPS tracking
devices, secure parking locations, and other security measures to protect their cargo. Shippers
should also communicate with their drivers to ensure they are aware of the increased risk of
theft during the holiday weekend and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and
their cargo. By being proactive and taking necessary security measures, shippers can reduce the
risk of cargo theft during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
Overhaul’s Recommendation:
In addition to thoroughly vetting all brokers, carriers, and drivers, and documenting all
necessary details for each shipment, shippers should confirm in advance if the receiver’s hours
of operation will be affected by the holiday and adjust any schedules as needed to avoid
unnecessary staging.
For over the road shipments, any stops made over the holiday period should be in well lit,
secured areas with trailer doors backed to a solid surface, if possible, while facilities should
ensure all security systems are functioning properly. Immediate escalation with a path to
effectively engage law enforcement is critical to recovering stolen cargo.
The Overhaul LE Connect network provides law enforcement in the area with all the pertinent
details needed to facilitate recovery within minutes of a confirmed theft. It is recommended for
drivers to stay vigilant and avoid leaving their vehicles unattended for any amount of time.
Overhaul recommends companies take advantage of real time transportation visibility platforms
that can aid in the recovery of stolen cargo
