CargoNet has released an urgent alert to the logistics sector about a heightened risk of cargo theft during the upcoming July 4th holiday week, noting that prolonged business closures can provide a favorable setting for thieves. “Cargo thieves take full advantage of longer holiday breaks,” stated Keith Lewis, vice president of operations at CargoNet. He also emphasized that with theft rates already exceeding the record levels of 2023, it is crucial for the industry to stay alert during the holiday weekend. After examining 174 theft incidents that took place from July 1 to July 7 over the last five years, CargoNet has pinpointed several significant trends. Critical Risk Days: July 1st and the 1803rd consistently exhibit the highest theft rates, probably because of unattended loaded vehicles prior to the holiday. Rising Trend: Although theft rates reached a peak in 2023, the projections for 2024 indicate that these figures will likely increase. Hotspot Locations: California, Texas, and Florida continue to be the states most frequently hit by cargo theft. The counties of San Bernardino in California and Maricopa in Arizona. Dallas, Texas; Los Angeles, California. ; as well as Shelby, Tennessee. Certain specific locations have become significant targets. Thieves tend to favor stealing non-alcoholic drinks (particularly energy drinks), large appliances, and electronic devices. The most prevalent methods of theft involve straightforward cargo and vehicle theft rather than elaborate fraudulent schemes. There have also been significant theft incidents noted from past July 4th celebrations. $439,895 worth of medical supplies sourced from Davenport, Florida. $352,000 in computer electronics obtained from San Francisco, California. $314,191 of computer electronics procured from Commerce, California. $180,000 in meat products acquired from Georgetown, Texas.
