Fleet Management News & Business Info | Commercial Carrier Journal
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/741858
SO WHAT EXACTLY IS BEING STOLEN? Some reports would suggest anything and everything. But, in terms of ranking, food and beverage takes the lead, accounting for 20 percent of all cargo the in North America. Why? Because cashews don't have serial numbers, and tomatoes seldom have RFID tags hidden in their packaging. In addition to this, there's a time-sensitive window for recovery with food, where the "evidence" usually gets consumed quickly. e same can't be said about computers and flat-screen televisions, so stealing food tends to be a lower risk venture. Also on the list of most frequently stolen goods, we have home and garden supplies at 14 percent, industrial supplies at 13 percent, auto and parts at 11 percent, clothing and shoes at 10 percent, and electronics at 8 percent. WHERE EXACTLY IS THIS HAPPENING? California is notorious for cargo the, and takes the lead at 22 percent. Texas is second at 15 percent, followed by Florida at 13 percent, New Jersey at 12 percent and Georgia at 7 percent. WHAT CAN BE DONE? e good news is, there are ways to minimize the risk of falling victim to cargo the. Here are a few tips that should help you fight back. How you park can make a difference: It's true that cargo thieves are clever, but that doesn't mean that you can't be. Using your surroundings when you back up to park, whether a building, other trailers or even fences can make breaking into your cargo close to impossible. If you're visiting a truck stop, make sure it's one with heavier traffic. Avoid darker lots when parking and look for well-lit areas. If you spot security cameras, try your best to park your vehicle in their field of view. Make sure you're not being followed: In recent years, drivers are more likely to be targeted and followed, so it's important that you maintain awareness of your surroundings. If you think there's a chance that you're being tailed, try slowing down to see if the car will pass you. You can also switch lanes to see whether the car behind you does the same. If you're still being followed, then take the next exit and try to park in a safe spot. If by now you're convinced you have a tail, call your fleet for help. Take time and location into consideration: Cargo the is significant problem, but only in a number of states. Also, instances occur much more frequently during holidays, and on the weekends (especially Saturdays). Be extra cautious during these times and in specific locations. Remember, 85 percent of all recorded robberies within the last three years occurred while the trucks were stationary and in unsecured parking lots. In the majority of these cases, trucks were le unattended. Know who you're working with: Do your due diligence when choosing your carriers. ere's a slew of fraudulent companies out there that specialize in internal the, so implementing a vigorous qualification process can be a useful precaution. A background check wouldn't hurt for the sake of verification. Don't neglect the old-school tools: As simple as it sounds, professional grade padlocks can make a big difference. ese locks are a generally inexpensive, low-tech alternative to comprehensive security programs. Bolted door hardware and frames also work, as well as horizontal pins for your rear trailer bolster for extra reinforcement. THE PROOF D&L went above and beyond what I ever expected to welcome me and take care of my needs and my customers' needs. ...made me feel like part of the family. …on pace to TRIPLE my best year ever. I am shocked and humbled and incredibly thankful to be an agent of D&L Transport… 24/7 AGENT SUPPORT MORE INFORMATION JIM LANGENBACH 877.263.6383 jlang@dandltrans.com BRIAN DEFRAIN 866.559.0203 brian@dandltrans.com ...back and fully support each agent. WATCH OUR VIDEOS AT dandltrans.com/agents Rafael is based in Canada, and is Marketing Manager for ITS Dispatch. Vo l . 1 0 , N o . 6 TRUCKSTOP.COM 23