Cargo Theft on the Rise: FleetPulse Telematics Helps Protect Your Assets
Cargo theft is becoming an increasingly serious issue for the transportation industry. The numbers tell a concerning story, with incidents rising sharply from 2024 to Q3 2025.
According to a recent article in Transport Topics, cargo theft is costing trucking companies approximately $6.6 billion annually and $18 million per day.
This growing threat underscores the need for businesses to adopt advanced security measures to protect their supply chains.
In an effort to help our customers work more efficiently and safely, the FleetPulse telematics platform comes standard on all our Great Dane trailers. As telematics continues to play an increasing role in the transportation industry, you may be searching for a telematics solution that is simple, reliable, and doesn’t require multiple data subscriptions. We believe FleetPulse is an outstanding solution worth considering.
Cargo Theft Is on The Rise
In today’s economy and with holidays quickly approaching, cargo theft is all too common. Here are a few statistics to help put things in perspective:
- In 2024, over 2,200 cargo theft incidents were reported in the U.S., marking a 49% increase in volume compared to 2023.
- The average value of stolen goods rose by 17%, with high-value items like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and clothing being prime targets.
- By Q1 2025, cargo theft incidents had already increased by 36% compared to the same period in 2024.
- Annual cargo theft losses are projected to rise by 22% by the end of 2025, with the average value of a single theft exceeding $200,000.
These statistics highlight the sophistication of organized crime groups taking advantage of vulnerabilities in the supply chain.
Cargo Theft Target: Food & Beverage
“Food and beverage are a specific target for criminals right now, accounting for 25% of all cargo theft,” said Carl-Christoph Reckers (CCR), CEO of FleetPulse.
Maybe you’ve seen the 60 Minutes report about the stolen tequila shipment that belonged to celebrity chef Guy Fieri and music legend Sammy Hagar. With only a paper trail, his company was lucky to recover one of the two missing shipments.
Unfortunately, no matter what you’re hauling, every fleet can be a target, especially in the months leading up to the holidays when cargo theft is most common.
Cargo Theft Is Preventable
According to CCR, there’s a great defense for this type of criminal activity.
“The good news is technology can help prevent and detect cargo theft. Door sensors aren’t new, but you can put data and AI on top of it, so you know when something suspicious is happening. You can even see inside the trailer in real time, but you don’t have to constantly watch your cargo. We can analyze the sensor data and detect a cargo shift at a suspicious location, flag it, and draw your team into a conversation about it in real time,” CCR said.
The Role of FleetPulse Telematics in Combating Cargo Theft
In response to these challenges, FleetPulse telematics offers a powerful solution to help businesses protect their assets. Here’s how FleetPulse can make a difference:
- Real-Time Tracking and Alerts: Monitor shipments in real-time and receive instant alerts if a vehicle deviates from its planned route or stops in high-risk areas.
- Geofencing Capabilities: Set virtual boundaries for vehicles, triggering alerts if a truck crosses these boundaries to prevent unauthorized rerouting or theft.
- Driver Behavior Monitoring: Ensure drivers follow safety protocols and avoid risky stops, reducing the likelihood of opportunistic thefts.
- Data-Driven Insights: Analyze historical data to identify route patterns and hotspots, identifying where a theft may have occurred.
- Integration with Advanced Security Systems: Combine FleetPulse with immobilizers, advanced security seals, and surveillance systems for a multi-layered defense.
Why Proactive Measures Matter
The financial impact of cargo theft goes beyond the value of stolen goods. Businesses face increased insurance premiums, operational disruptions, and potential damage to their reputation. By investing in proactive measures like FleetPulse telematics, companies can mitigate these risks and protect their bottom line.
As cargo theft continues to rise, you may be prioritizing your cargo security. FleetPulse telematics provides a comprehensive solution that not only deters theft but also enhances operational efficiency.
Learn more about FleetPulse here.