Increase in cargo thefts during the 2024 holiday season

According to a recent report by Overhaul, the increase in these crimes has been significant in the third quarter of 2024.

‘Tis the season for rising cargo theft. Each year, as the celebrations approach, frauds and cargo thefts increasingly affect the transportation sector, putting drivers and carriers at risk. According to a recent report by Overhaul, the increase in these crimes has been significant in the third quarter of 2024, with a 6.2% rise compared to the previous quarter.

This increase translates to losses totaling $176,290, surpassing even the rise recorded during the same period last year, with a 7% year-over-year increase. This growth is notable, especially when considering the volume of thefts recorded in the third quarter of 2023. Overhaul’s data indicates that during that period, 486 cargo theft incidents were reported, representing an alarming 177% increase compared to 2022.

Cargo theft trends in the U.S. in 2024

The report provides a detailed analysis of cargo theft trends in the U.S., covering everything from the daily frequency of thefts to the hours when these incidents are most common. According to Overhaul’s data, most cargo thefts occur during the week, with Thursday (18%) and Friday (17%) being the days with the highest incidence, followed by Monday (16%). Weekends account for only 10% of thefts, though no day is completely safe. Additionally, 32% of thefts occur between 12 a.m. and 6 a.m., when security is lower.

On the other hand, electronics top the list of the most stolen products, accounting for 30% of the cases, followed by miscellaneous items at 18%, and automotive parts at 12%. Most thefts occur in locations with poor security, such as dark parking lots (25%) and warehouses (22%), highlighting the need for more effective monitoring and security measures to protect truckers and their cargo.

States most affected by cargo theft

While theft numbers have increased across the U.S., when it comes to the locations where thefts occur, California and Texas continue to be the most affected states, with California showing the largest margin. According to Overhaul’s report, this state accounted for 30% of all reported thefts in the third quarter of 2024. The other affected states show the following figures:

Texas – 22%
Tennessee – 13%
Pennsylvania – 10%
Illinois – 7%

California continues to lead the list of cargo thefts, which is concerning despite the state’s investment in reducing them. In October 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom announced $267 million in funding to combat organized crime, emphasizing that more resources are being provided to law enforcement. Although thefts have increased, officials report that this funding has had an impact, with over 10,000 arrests related to cargo theft, vehicle theft, and retail crimes.

Despite state and federal efforts to curb this criminal wave, the data reveals that the problem persists and is intensifying. Security measures, both in infrastructure and inter-agency coordination, are essential to mitigating these crimes. In this context, the investment and resources dedicated to combating organized crime are positive steps, but it is clear that a more comprehensive and sustained approach is needed to effectively protect supply chains and ensure the safety of transportation workers.