Андрей Журавлев AdobeStock_396129298
Verisk CargoNet issued an urgent advisory to the logistics industry warning of significantly increased cargo theft risk during the upcoming July 4 holiday week.
"The July 4th holiday period consistently presents one of the highest-risk windows for cargo theft due to extended facility closures and reduced security presence," says Keith Lewis, VP of operations at Verisk CargoNet. "With theft rates nearly tripling over the past decade, logistics companies must prioritize enhanced security measures during holiday periods to protect their assets and maintain supply chain integrity."
Key takeaways:
- July 1 and July 3 represent the highest-risk days during the holiday period, with theft activity generally concentrated around extended weekend closures.
- Cargo theft rates have escalated far beyond historical norms. While Verisk CargoNet averaged four theft reports per day between 2013-2022, recent years show the problem continues to escalate: eight reports daily in 2023, 10 in 2024, and 11 in 2025.
- California, Texas, and Illinois remain the most targeted states. Logistics operations in Los Angeles County, Calif.; San Bernardino County, Calif.; Dallas County, Texas; Cook County, Ill.; and Shelby County, Tenn., face the highest risk exposure.
- Current theft trends focus heavily on non-alcoholic beverages, vehicle accessories (especially tires and automotive parts), computer electronics, and major appliances.
- Reports of direct cargo and vehicle theft continue to significantly outnumber reports of sophisticated fraud schemes, indicating a higher rate of direct action theft during vulnerable periods.
