Red, White And Safe

Top Targeted Commodities labeled on truck
The mid-point of summer arrives July 4th and with it comes the possibility of stolen freight.
 
Many will hit the beaches and pools or look to the skies for a fireworks display celebrating our independence, but thieves look to liberate cargo sitting idle during the long holiday weekend.
 
CargoNet indicates Fourth of July thefts went down in 2013, but have been on the rise each of the last two years. The average loss over Independence Day will be more than $180,000 – up about $10,000 from just eight months ago.
 
Food and beverage items are the top-targeted items to steal, followed by household goods and metals.
 
The best way to avoid cargo theft? Don’t leave freight in your trailer. Or, if you must, don’t leave the trailer unattended. Parking lots, warehouses and truck stops are the top three areas criminals target.
 
As a reminder, other simple tips to ensure your load’s safety include:
 
  • Only park loaded trailers in secure lots that have barrier to entry, access control, lighting, surveillance and monitoring.
  • Securely lock both tractors and trailers and request the driver report as soon as they drop and as soon as they come back to pick it up. 
  • Ask the local police department to make additional patrols around warehouses or secure lots
  • Make sure all lights, back-up generators, alarm systems, and surveillance equipment are in good working order prior to leaving for the weekend. 
     
Enjoy a safe and happy Fourth of July. TQL is here for you 24/7/365, nights, weekends, and holidays. Talk to us to meet all your shipping needs, even over a long weekend.
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