As Independence Day approaches, Verisk CargoNet has issued a nationwide alert warning logistics providers and fleet operators of a significant spike in cargo theft risk surrounding the July 4th holiday. The alert, based on a five-year analysis of theft trends, reveals troubling patterns that demand immediate attention from supply chain and security professionals. Extended closures and reduced oversight during the holiday period create prime opportunities for thieves to strike.
According to CargoNet’s review of theft activity from July 1 to July 7 over the last five years, the most targeted dates are July 1 and July 3—days typically impacted by early facility closures and long weekend schedules. These dates have consistently seen the highest number of reported thefts.
The report highlights a worrying surge in cargo crime. Where CargoNet previously recorded an average of four thefts per day during the July 4th week between 2013 and 2022, the number has since spiked dramatically: eight incidents per day in 2023, ten in 2024, and eleven in 2025. This upward trend represents nearly triple the historical average.
Top targeted regions include:
- California (notably Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties)
- Texas (Dallas County)
- Illinois (Cook County)
- Tennessee (Shelby County)
High-value goods being targeted include:
- Non-alcoholic beverages
- Tires and automotive parts
- Consumer electronics
- Large appliances
While fraud schemes are on the rise industry-wide, CargoNet notes that during holiday windows, most incidents stem from direct cargo and vehicle theft rather than complex scams—likely due to the ease of access during facility shutdowns.
Several noteworthy thefts from past July 4th holidays illustrate the scope and impact of these incidents:
- $700,000 worth of e-cigarettes stolen from Eastvale, CA
- $540,000 in apparel from Elk Grove Village, IL
- $439,895 in medical supplies from Davenport, FL
- $352,000 and $314,191 in electronics from San Francisco and Commerce, CA
Keith Lewis, Vice President of Operations at Verisk CargoNet, emphasized the urgency: “The July 4th holiday period consistently presents one of the highest-risk windows for cargo theft due to extended facility closures and reduced security presence.”
In response, logistics and freight companies are urged to strengthen their holiday protocols. Recommended measures include:
- Boosted on-site and in-transit security
- Real-time communication with drivers
- Coordinated surveillance with local law enforcement
- Enhanced trailer seals and secure parking locations
Verisk CargoNet continues to collaborate with stakeholders across the industry, supporting efforts to safeguard cargo and maintain the reliability of the U.S. supply chain. With thefts accelerating year after year, this year’s July 4th window demands heightened vigilance.
Source:
https://www.truckinginfo.com/10243471/cargonet-alert-elevated-cargo-theft-risk-july-4th-weekend
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