Although cargo theft typically spikes during the busy holiday seasons, it has proven to be a growing threat year-round. Cargo theft incidents increased significantly in the first quarter of 2024, rising a startling 46% compared to Q1 2023 and 10% compared to Q4 2023 according to data from CargoNet.
The average reported stolen amount was over $280,000, with warehouses, distribution centers and parking lots being the top targeted locations for these incidents.
Commonsense solutions like high-security trailer locks and surveillance cameras in facilities and yards provide a degree of protection against theft. Fleet telematics can deliver an even higher level of security.
Here are four ways that telematics can reduce the threat of cargo theft and protect both drivers and fleet assets:
Real-time monitoring and asset tracking
Real-time tracking and monitoring of vehicles, trailers and other assets is one of the main advantages of fleet telematics technology.
Fleet managers can easily trace their vehicles’ whereabouts using GPS-enabled devices that provide real-time position updates. Additionally, fleets may be remotely monitored via mobile devices at any time using cloud-based management solutions. With this degree of visibility, any unplanned or unaccounted for stops or detours can be quickly identified and investigated.
Integrated asset trackers provide real-time updates on the exact location of trailers and other assets. EROAD’s StealthNet asset tracker offers the additional benefit of a stealthy design, as it is installed on the trailer chassis and is not detectable or easily removed.
Related: 4 Big Benefits of Smart Trailer Tracking
Geofencing and automated alerts
Geofencing is another benefit of telematics. Carriers can create virtual barriers, or “geofences,” around designated regions. Fleet managers can then quickly respond to any operational or security issues if a telematics-equipped vehicle or trailer leaves a designated zone.
Overall, geofencing technology is a useful tool for trucking companies that provides advantages like better asset management, enhanced security, fleet visibility and route optimization, along with powerful data-driven insights on driver behaviors. These advantages all play a major role in improving operations and making trucking companies safer and more secure – and more competitive in the market.
Learn more about EROAD Geofence Site Activity reporting
Connected sensors
Many telematics solutions are compatible with a host of sensors that provide immediate notifications to carriers, enabling prompt intervention and preventing theft attempts. These sensors trigger alerts upon unauthorized access or tampering with cargo containers or trailers, such as when a trailer door is opened or closed.
When location data and geofencing data are combined, you can know exactly when and where someone enters a trailer without authorization. While trailer door sensors can aid in thwarting cargo theft (or provide data for the investigation of theft incidents), other compatible sensors can increase efficiency and safety as well.
For example, tire sensors provide carriers with real-time data on trailer tire pressure and temperature, preventing blowouts, expensive roadside repairs, and underinflation violations. They also save drivers time by preventing them from hooking up to trailers with flat tires. More advanced sensors offer information about the condition of the reefer, lighting, brakes, cargo, trailer temperature, and more.
Driver behavior monitoring
Telematics-enabled behavior analytics is also an effective tool in the battle against cargo theft. Telematics technology helps managers keep an eye on driver behavior and be alerted of unusual activity such as erratic or abrupt braking, careless driving, deviating from regular driving habits or protracted idle periods.
Driver behavior data gives carriers the knowledge they need to provide more effective driver coaching and training programs to increase safety and take action against driving habits that waste gas or put undue wear and tear on vehicles.
By utilizing a combination of GPS, telecommunications, and linked sensors, telematics provides a range of features that enable motor carriers to improve security protocols, track assets in real time, and lessen the likelihood of cargo theft.
