Although cargo theft typically spikes during the busy holiday seasons, it has now become a year-round threat—and it’s escalating fast. While commonsense measures like trailer locks and surveillance cameras offer some protection, leading fleets are turning to more advanced solutions.
How big is cargo theft?
According to Verisk CargoNet’s 2024 annual analysis, cargo theft across North America rose by 27% from 2023, numbering at 3,625 reported incidents. In fact, every quarter of 2024 broke previous records.
Some alarming trends we’re seeing are:
- Numbers keep climbing: Q1 alone saw 317 more incidents than the same time in 2023. Even by Q4, thefts were still up nearly 11.81% year-over-year
- Thieves are getting selective: Targets have shifted from engine oils and energy drinks to high-value goods like copper, electronics, and produce
- California and Texas are being hit the hardest: These two major freight hubs reported theft increases of 33% and 39%, respectively
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, especially when combined with next-gen AI dashcam technology. These systems don’t just monitor driving performance; they provide real-time alerts when unusual or risky behavior occurs, like harsh acceleration, abrupt braking, fatigue, or distracted driving. Sudden changes in driving patterns can be early warning signs of potential theft, giving fleet managers a crucial opportunity to act fast.
Beyond alerts, fleet managers get instant access to tagged video clips and real-time behavior data, giving them the knowledge they need to design more effective driver coaching and training programs to safeguard against theft.
Taking a stand against cargo theft
Cargo theft isn’t slowing down, and neither should you. You don’t have to leave your fleet vulnerable; telematics brings together location tracking, driver behavior insights, and automated alerts into a single solution that works around the clock. Success comes from outsmarting thieves before they even have a chance to strike.
