Highlighting the Hotsheet: 2nd Quarter Cargo Theft Update

Highlighting the Hotsheet: 2nd Quarter Cargo Theft Update

The second quarter statistics on cargo theft in 2014 (Q2-14) are in from the Supply Chain- Information Sharing and Analysis Center (SC-ISAC).  For those unfamiliar, SC-ISAC is a liaison for information sharing between Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the nation’s supply chain. DHS identified Transportation Systems as one of sixteen critical infrastructures to the nation’s supply chain, and cargo theft as a constant threat to stability.

Turnaround

A decrease in reported cargo theft continues! While SC-ISAC’s 140 reported incidents this quarter are up from the first, the sum total is materially down from the 194 reported Q2 of 2013.  Freightwatch numbers for the same quarter are higher at 185 incidents, but still represent a slight dip from 2013. (Note: Some companies report to both SC-ISAC and Freightwatch; some only one or the other; others report to neither.)

Which States?

Texas continues, unfortunately, to lead the nation in cargo thefts for the third quarter in a row. California, Georgia, Illinois, Florida and NJ continue their normally high levels of activity.

For the first time, SC-ISAC includes a breakdown of cities known to be hot spots, in this quarter Dallas, the LA Basin, Atlanta, Chicago and Miami.

Highlighting the Hotsheet: 2nd Quarter Cargo Theft Update 

Where?

Truck stops and yards continue to lead the rankings with yards taking the top spot in the second quarter.  Freightwatch’s analysis delved even further into this issue and produced an alarming statistic: Facility burglary increased in this quarter by 100% as compared to the second quarter of 2013, and 67% as compared to the first quarter this year.

When?

Cargo theft consistently spikes over weekends. This quarter, 63% of all cargo theft occurred over the weekend, down slightly from the 73% reported in 1st Qtr. Still, it’s overwhelmingly clear that weekends are when cargo is at its greatest risk.

Highlighting the Hotsheet: 2nd Quarter Cargo Theft Update 

What Are They Stealing?

For the first time in recent reporting, food was not only eliminated as the number one target. Food actually dropped out of the top 5 most targeted products altogether. Consumer electronics took the number one spot, and that number will likely rise again in Q3 as stores stock up for the holiday season.

Looking deeper into the specific commodities stolen, construction materials, such as shingles and lumber, took the number one spot on specific items stolen. This is to be expected in the spring months.

Highlighting the Hotsheet: 2nd Quarter Cargo Theft Update 

How Much Is It Worth?

At an average per load value of $15,000, SC ISAC estimates the 2nd Qtr. losses to be worth $22 million. Freightwatch value per load is much higher, at $174,000, which is more consistent with the historical quarterly average.

New Trends in Theft:

SC-ISAC has recently shared information regarding new trends:

  • Bobtail bandits: With increasing frequency, thieves are stealing bobtailed (uncoupled) tractors from freight yards and immediately driving them to truck stops and drop lots near the interstate.  The thieves circle around, in search of a loaded and unattended trailer, knowing that a loaded, uncoupled trailer in this location is less likely to have hidden GPS tracking devices. Having identified a target, the thieves are able to hook up the trailer and drive away with the cargo.
  • Fictitious Pickups: Deceptive pickups continue to rise – Freightwatch uses the term “surge” -- in terms of frequency and success.  Several cases now include thieves stealing the identity of an existing trucking firm to better mask their efforts.

Predictions & Recommendations:

We predict Q3 will present a major spike in cargo theft, as it traditionally does.  Labor Day is always the starting gun for an average 61% increase in cargo theft, because stores start stocking up for Black Friday.

Starting right now, this is high season for thieves.  We strongly recommend freight and logistics companies that have security challenges review all protocols and contact security companies for assistance where they’ve detected weaknesses.

For a primer on cargo theft, SC-ISAC, and the regional cargo theft councils check out J.J. Coughlin’s book, Cargo Crime. JJ does a great job explaining how cargo theft affects the industry as a whole, the structure of the industry and what can be done to fight cargo theft.

Be safe, be vigilant.

**(Electric Guard Dog is proud to be a sponsor of the SC-ISAC database and active in regional cargo theft councils.)

About the Author

Jack DeMao is the CEO and president of Electric Guard Dog.

Featured

  • Unlocking the Possibilities

    Security needs continue to evolve and end users are under pressure to address emerging risks and safety concerns. For many, that focus starts with upgrading perimeter openings and layering technologies—beginning at the door. Read Now

  • Freedom of Choice

    In today's security landscape, we are witnessing a fundamental transformation in how organizations manage digital evidence. Law enforcement agencies, campus security teams, and large facility operators face increasingly complex challenges with expanding video data, tightening budget constraints and inflexible systems that limit innovation. Read Now

  • Accelerating a Pathway

    There is a new trend touting the transformational qualities of AI’s ability to deliver actionable data and predictive analysis that in many instances, seems to be a bit of an overpromise. The reality is that very few solutions in the cyber-physical security (CPS) space live up to this high expectation with the one exception being the new generation of Physical Identity and Access Management (PIAM) software – herein recategorized as PIAM+. Read Now

  • Protecting Your Zones

    It is game day. You can feel the crowd’s energy. In the parking lot. At the gate. In the stadium. On the concourse. Fans are eager to party. Food and merchandise vendors ready themselves for the rush. Read Now

  • Street Smarts

    The ongoing acceptance of AI and advanced data analytics has allowed surveillance camera technology to shift from being a tactical tool to a strategic business solution. Combining traditional surveillance technology with AI-based data-driven insights can streamline transportation systems, enhance traffic management, improve situational awareness, optimize resource allocation and streamline emergency response procedures. Read Now

New Products

  • 4K Video Decoder

    3xLOGIC’s VH-DECODER-4K is perfect for use in organizations of all sizes in diverse vertical sectors such as retail, leisure and hospitality, education and commercial premises.

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden Door Controls is pleased to announce that, in response to soaring customer demand, it has expanded its range of ValueWave™ no-touch switches to include a narrow (slimline) version with manual override. This override button is designed to provide additional assurance that the request to exit switch will open a door, even if the no-touch sensor fails to operate. This new slimline switch also features a heavy gauge stainless steel faceplate, a red/green illuminated light ring, and is IP65 rated, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor use as part of an automatic door or access control system. ValueWave™ no-touch switches are designed for easy installation and trouble-free service in high traffic applications. In addition to this narrow version, the CM-221 & CM-222 Series switches are available in a range of other models with single and double gang heavy-gauge stainless steel faceplates and include illuminated light rings.