Cargo Theft Decreased in 2018

Cargo thefts across the United States were down 19 percent in 2018, along with a 2 percent decrease in theft values.

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According to a report from SensiGuard, Cargo thefts across the United States were down 19 percent in 2018, along with a 2 percent decrease in theft values. 

In 2018, there was a total of 592 cargo thefts in the U.S., averaging at $142,342. However, the report found that the fourth quarter was the most active as 171 thefts occurred compared to 159 thefts in the third quarter, 145 in the second quarter and 117 in the first quarter. 

While there was a drop in theft last year, organized cargo thieves still present a threat to highly-targeted shipments. 

Commercial Carrier Journal reports that electronics were the most-stole product type throughout the year, taking up 20 percent of all thefts. Home and garden products ranked in second with 16 percent of total thefts. 

Meanwhile, full truckload thefts accounted for the most thefts by event type at 74 percent of all cargo thefts, according to SensiGuard. Pilferage made up 18 percent of cargo thefts, followed by 4 percent for facility thefts and 3 percent for fictitious pickups. 

Commercial Carrier Journal reports that California had the most reported thefts, accounting for 26 percent of total thefts in 2018. Meanwhile, Illinois saw a 72 percent increase in theft rate with 10 percent of total thefts. 


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