Be proactive in protecting your LTL loads 

We’ve all heard of porch pirates and know things like doorbell cameras can help deter thieves, but what can be done about theft in shipping on a larger scale? Because the LTL freight process involves shipments going from city to city until they reach their final destination, LTL providers and shippers must keep freight safe at every step. 

But what exactly is freight theft, and what can you do about it? Continue reading to learn what LTL carriers do to prevent cargo theft and what can be done to protect your freight. 

What kind of theft is occurring? 

Freight theft can be categorized into three major types:  

  • Straight cargo theft. This is when items are taken directly from warehouses or commercial businesses.

  • Pilferage. Also known as leakage, pilfering involves thieves stealing small amounts of goods over time so the business doesn’t notice for an extended period.

  • Strategic cargo theft. Using a fake ID or phony business to trick carriers, brokers and shippers are examples of tactics scammers use to obtain goods illegally through strategic theft. This type of robbery is the most calculated and can be costly.

When and where does most cargo theft take place?

Although theft is something all businesses should be aware of, there are pockets of concentration within the United States where it’s most likely to occur. Further, freight may be more susceptible to theft during certain times of the year.  

Big cities top the list  

According to CargoNet, a company that tracks and investigates cargo theft, metro areas often see higher theft rates due to their large number of warehouses and high population density. Los Angeles is known to have the highest rate of cargo theft. Other metros include Chicago, Atlanta, Miami, NYC and Philadelphia.  

Although it may be difficult to avoid these cities altogether, be aware of which cities your loads move through to stay ahead of any problems. 

The time of year matters  

Because warehouses are usually full of high-demand goods, holidays typically see spikes in theft rates. While this certainly includes winter holidays, CargoNet also issues holiday advisories for Labor Day, July 4th and Memorial Day.  

To avoid holiday delays and theft, consider working with your provider to shift the bulk of your loads from higher-peak days to off-peak days.

How LTL carriers keep your freight secure 

LTL carriers keep security in mind and use several strategies to keep freight secure during transportation. While some are specific to certain types of theft, others ensure safety throughout the process. For example, trailer doors are sealed after they’re loaded, and drivers keep an eye on trailers when they stop for fuel or food.  

More specific measures include:

Physical theft or pilferage protection 

Physical and pilferage theft need physical solutions. To keep freight secure at service centers, LTL carriers use:

  • Fencing
  • Alarm systems
  • Proper lighting
  • Door locks

For strategic theft 

Strategic theft is also a concern for providers. The following are used to prevent strategic cargo theft:

  • ID checks at the docks
  • Security personnel watching loads  
  • Trained personnel to monitor transfers

Get added protection with cargo insurance 

Remember to add protection with cargo insurance. Carriers offer a range of insurance options for your loads, covering the value of the freight in case of loss or damage during transit. 

When you book a load with ArcBest’s LTL carrier, ABF Freight, or through our network of trusted LTL providers, you can rest easy knowing that these safety processes are taking place. In fact, ABF is the first LTL carrier to win the Excellence in Cargo Claims & Loss Prevention Award (LTL division) by the American Trucking Associations 10 times.  

What you can do to mitigate LTL cargo theft 

There are several things shippers can do to help prevent theft. The following best practices should be followed: 

Screen and vet carrier partners  

Ensure your transportation provider is reputable and has the experience to deal with issues that may arise along the way.  

Secure your packaging and properly label 

Your load should be packaged appropriately and clearly labeled to reduce the risk of mixing up shipments. Proper packaging prevents mishaps like pilferage. 

Utilize tracking and monitoring systems  

Most providers offer macropoint tracking. Some even have live tracking online. Use these systems to keep track of where your freight currently is.

Make sure your routes are optimized   

Optimized routes refer to strategic and quick routes that are designed to ensure that trucks travel through cities on safe and secure paths, and they are maintained by service providers. These routes help prevent theft by reducing the amount of time a load spends in a warehouse and ensuring loads are delivered promptly. 

Maintain communication  

Always be open to communication. Be available for your provider, be aware of any issues, and be willing to help solve problems along the way. 

Trust ArcBest to keep your loads secure 

Regardless of what you’re shipping, cargo theft can be a concern. At ArcBest, we take freight security seriously. Whether through ArcBest LTL carrier, ABF Freight, or one of our brokered LTL offerings, ArcBest is positioned to ensure your cargo is secure during transit and overnights.  

Learn more about ArcBest LTL options.