Overhaul continues to see this tactic for targeted, high-value, large-scale pilferage at receiving facilities spread throughout Southern California and now into Northern California and may spread to other areas as well.  

In this M.O., drivers parked outside of busy receiving facilities are approached by individuals posing as employees of the facility. These individuals are typically wearing safety vests, employee identification, and carrying clipboards. These individuals instruct the driver on where to park, typically just around a corner but out of view of the facility gates or CCTV cameras, and then direct the driver towards the facility office to check in. While the driver is checking in, accomplices will open the trailer and pilfer their targeted cargo into a cargo van.  

Suspects will make every effort to appear official, and may use any combination of safety vests, hard hats, clipboards, or company logo work shirts to project authority. In recent cases, suspects have advanced their efforts to appear as a legitimate employee and are also using fake employee badges and credentials.  

Overhaul recommends that shippers of high value consumer electronics or other targeted and high demand products make all drivers aware of any special procedures for checking in before they arrive, and caution against listening to anyone giving direction outside the facility if no such position exists. Additionally, receiving facilities should be vigilant for suspicious activity, including signs of surveillance or individuals posing as employees approaching drivers. Any suspicious activity should be documented and reported to local police as well as remote monitoring centers.   

With all theft methods, contextual intelligence, remote compliance monitoring, and real time visibility are critical to preventing cargo theft. An immediate escalation process with a path to effective law enforcement engagement is critical to recognizing and recovering cargo once it has been stolen.