How TAPA's highest security certification supports freight security at TQL

TQL earns the highest level of certification under the freight security standard it helped develop

Key points: 

• TQL is the largest freight brokerage to earn TAPA FBSR Tier 1 certification, verified through a rigorous third-party audit.
• TQL participated in the advisory committee that helped develop the global standard of best practices for cargo security.
• TQL uses layered security measures to help protect shipments and manage risk.

By Shannon Russell

TQL has earned Tier 1 certification under the Transported Asset Protection Association’s (TAPA) Freight Broker Security Requirements (FBSR), becoming the largest freight brokerage to earn the program’s top certification.

So what does this mean for customers? 

TQL’s security practices have been independently audited by a third party and verified to meet TAPA’s Tier 1 requirements. For customers, that provides an added layer of confidence in how TQL manages freight security and works to protect shipments from cargo theft, fraud and other threats.

FBSR has three certification tiers. TQL is the only brokerage among Transport Topics’ Top 30 freight brokerages to hold the top designation.

TQL also helped develop FBSR, contributing to a common set of security requirements for freight brokers. These guidelines give brokers a clearer way to identify and address risks, helping strengthen freight security across the industry.

Related: Cargo theft is changing. Here’s how TQL helps protect your freight

What TAPA Tier 1 certification means for freight security

Cargo theft and fraud are ongoing risks in freight shipping. FBSR sets clear security guidelines to help freight brokers spot potential risks and protect shipments.

The requirements address threats such as load interception, identity theft, fraudulent bills of lading and misuse of shipping information. Protecting freight also takes coordination across the supply chain, with shippers, brokers and carriers each playing a role in reducing risk.

Certification gives shippers a clearer way to understand how a broker manages freight security. While no standard can prevent every threat, shared guidelines help everyone take a more consistent approach to protecting freight.

How TQL’s security practices help protect freight

TQL, a five-time CargoNet Best in Cargo Security award winner, uses several security measures for real protection on the road, including: 

• Proactive shipment security: Customer-specific procedures, route and stop planning, and specialized security support help protect higher-risk freight.
• Carrier vetting and verification: Carrier screening and ongoing monitoring, along with specific procedures for driver pickup, over-the-road transit and delivery, help address potential risks.
• Real-time visibility: GPS tracking and optional covert devices provide real-time location and temperature monitoring throughout transit.
• Additional protection when needed: Security resources, including shipment escorts, provide added protection for higher-risk freight.

TQL’s dedicated cargo security team also works with law enforcement, nonprofits and industry peers to share information and help prevent cargo theft and other freight-related crimes.

Leading the way in freight security 

TQL’s involvement with TAPA extends beyond its role in developing FBSR. 

David Mitsui, TQL director of risk and compliance operations, served on the advisory committee and has also served as a lead trainer. Zak Bowyer, TQL vice president of sales support operations, serves on TAPA’s Board of Directors.

Through its security practices and work with industry partners, TQL continues to help strengthen efforts to protect freight.

Have questions about cargo security or options available for your shipments? Contact your dedicated Logistics Account Representative today or call (800) 580-3101.