Cargo Theft Remains Top Concern in Supply Chain Space

Increases in theft activity around major intermodal hubs were significant.

S Adobe Stock 475846583
S... AdobeStock_475846583

CargoNet recorded 1,778 supply chain risk events across the United States and Canada in 2022, an increase of 15% from 2021. Supply chain disruptions were one of the main concerns of the year because of their effect on inflation. Scarcity and cost drove illicit market demand for goods most affected like computer graphics cards and raw beef, poultry and pork. Available capacity eased in the later months of 2022, but theft remained a prominent threat.

 

From CargoNet:

 

  • Events that involved theft of at least one heavy commercial vehicle such as a semi-truck or semi-trailer increased by 17% year-over-year, while events that involved theft of cargo increased by 20% year-over-year. The average value of cargo stolen in an event was $214,104, equalivant to an estimated $223 million in cargo.
  • Increases in theft activity around major intermodal hubs were significant. California remained the top state for reported events in 2022, and theft in the state increased 41% year-over-year. Computer and green energy components were some of the most frequently stolen items of the year, and California is a major logistics hub for these items. Theft in Georgia increased by 34% year-over-year, due in part to organized crime groups that took advantage of increased traffic to the Port of Savannah.
  • Household items such as appliances and furniture were the most stolen commodity in 2022. There was also a notable increase in theft of shipments of tools and toys. Household items were closely followed by electronics.
  • CargoNet recorded 96 more fictitious pickups in 2022 compared to the year prior, a 600% increase year-over-year. Most fictitious cargo pickups occurred in California (74% of total), but the crime is spreading across the country with similar fictitious pickups in Washington, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Texas and others. 
Latest