Cargo theft spikes during Thanksgiving: how to stay safe

Every year during Thanksgiving, cargo theft poses a serious threat to the trucking industry, and this year will be no exception.

Every year during Thanksgiving, cargo theft poses a serious threat to the trucking industry, and this year will be no exception. According to data from Verisk CargoNet, an increase in organized crime is expected during this period, and the trucking and logistics sectors are advised to respond by intensifying surveillance and reinforcing security protocols.

Verisk CargoNet analyzes and provides risk data to the insurance sector, anticipating trends and spikes that may threaten the transportation industry. In its 2024 data report, the company observed a significant rise in theft incidents during Thanksgiving and anticipates the trend will continue this year.

Increases in cargo theft during Thanksgiving

A report published by the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) determined that the total cost of cargo theft in the industry has reached $18 million per day in direct and indirect losses, with 74% of stolen goods disappearing permanently and being counted as total losses.

During Thanksgiving week, theft incidents have risen over the past five years, with 79 incidents recorded in the 2024 analysis period, representing a 65% increase compared to the 48 incidents reported in 2023, according to data published by FreightWaves.

This seasonal rise stems from criminal organizations systematically taking advantage of the Thanksgiving holiday period, when shipment volumes are high and security staffing is often reduced.

Food and beverages are the products at highest risk of theft during holiday periods, with 31 incidents recorded in the 2024 analysis. Electronics, auto parts, household appliances, and clothing also rank among the most frequently stolen types of cargo.

According to Verisk CargoNet, the commercial value of goods stolen during the company’s 2024 analysis period reached $9.5 million, with an average loss exceeding $151,500 per theft.

Securing cargo: strategies to prevent theft

The increase in incident rates during holiday periods makes this a particularly critical time to enforce strict security protocols. Verisk CargoNet emphasizes that it is the responsibility of both carriers and companies to implement and follow these safety procedures.

Carriers should exercise extreme caution when accepting loads containing high-value products or when doing business with unfamiliar partners. Companies, for their part, should verify the legitimacy of all carriers and freight brokers, ensure that vehicles and trailers are secured in well-lit and monitored locations, and maintain communication with drivers throughout the trip.

For additional protection, we recommend the following strategies to keep cargo secure during Thanksgiving week:

1. Rest Areas and Parking

When selecting rest stops, ensure they have well-lit areas and 24-hour security, including surveillance cameras. Avoid isolated locations whenever possible. If necessary, consider investing in private parking during this period for added security.

2. Strict Procedures

For companies, it is essential to establish clear guidelines for handling and storing cargo through inventory logs, audits, and other controls. This ensures that only authorized personnel have access to the goods, increasing merchandise protection.

3. Security Culture

Promote workshops and training programs that prioritize cargo-theft prevention. Keep all staff informed about strategies to avoid and respond to theft situations by sharing up-to-date information on security best practices.

4. Preventive Measures

Criminals continue to develop new ways to deceive drivers and carry out thefts. Therefore, regularly review and evaluate your cargo-security strategies. Stay informed about emerging trends and criminal tactics; monitor industry reports and alerts to identify new threats and adapt your security protocols accordingly.