4th Of July Thieves Have Their Eye On Your Freight
Many will hit the pool 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.
According to CargoNet, Fourth of July thefts have been on the rise every year since 2013. As usual, food and beverage items are the most popular 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.
CargoNet also warns California, Texas, Florida, Georgia and Illinois are the most popular states for theft, so keep an extra close eye on your freight if you are stopping through these areas.
Other ways to ensure your load’s safety:
- 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 carriers 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.
Remember, TQL is here for you 24/7/365, nights, weekends, and holidays. Let us show you how we can meet all your shipping needs, even over a long weekend, or request a quote.