Cargo theft activity in the United States and Canada reached historic levels, increasing by 27% in 2024.
The latest report from Verisk CargoNet shows that cargo theft activity in the United States and Canada reached historic levels in 2024. During the year, a total of 3,625 theft incidents were reported, marking a 27% increase compared to 2023. The average value of losses from thefts rose to $202,364, a significant increase from the $187,895 reported the previous year.
Every quarter of 2024 surpassed the previous records set in 2023 the report reveals, although the rate of growth slowed as the year progressed. The first quarter of 2024 was the most impactful, with 317 additional incidents compared to the same period in the previous year. In contrast, the last quarter showed a more moderate increase of 94 incidents, representing an 11.81% year-over-year growth.

Breakdown of Cargo Thefts in 2024
The report provides additional data on the most stolen types of cargo, as well as the states where most of these thefts occurred. According to the data shared by Verisk, 46% of all cargo thefts in North America took place in the United States. The most affected states were:
- California: Experienced a 33% increase, with Los Angeles seeing a 50% rise and San Bernardino experiencing a 47% increase.
- Texas: Surpassed this figure with a 39% increase. Dallas County, in particular, stood out with a dramatic 78% rise in reported incidents.
Illinois also appears on the list, though the exact number of thefts in this state is not specified.
Additionally, the analysis highlighted a shift in the most stolen products compared to 2023. While previous years saw thefts focused on motor oils, fluids, solar energy products, and energy drinks, in 2024, criminal enterprises shifted their focus toward higher-value items such as:
- Raw and processed copper
- Electronic equipment (especially high-end servers and audio systems)
- Cryptocurrency mining hardware
- Specific consumer goods (avocados, nuts)
- Personal care products, including cosmetics and dietary supplements

Trends in Cargo Theft
Despite the increased use of more advanced methods, traditional thefts such as trailer hijackings and complete trailer thefts remained frequent. Major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, Dallas-Fort Worth, Atlanta, and New York continued to be hotspots for these types of crimes.
According to CargoNet, the threat landscape continues to evolve, with criminal organizations showing great adaptability both in their techniques and in the targets they choose. Looking ahead to 2025, the company expects current trends to persist, with criminals continuing to exploit vulnerabilities in the supply chain with an increasingly aggressive approach.

Tips to Prevent Cargo Theft
- Ensure the integrity of daily transactions with strict review procedures. A second inspection by a supervisor before assigning a load can prevent thefts.
- Verify the pickup of the load before advancing fuel payments and avoid accepting incoming calls from unverified carriers.
- Provide security personnel and drivers with accurate details about vehicles and use high-security seals and locks.
- Maintain active surveillance at facilities with alarm systems, and document any suspicious activity to support police investigations in cargo theft cases.

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