Verisk CargoNet, which specializes in cargo theft prevention and recovery, recently issued what it called "an urgent advisory" warning of significantly increased cargo theft risk during the July 4th holiday week.
Extended business closures generally create advantageous operating conditions for cargo thieves, making this period particularly vulnerable for supply chain security, according to CargoNet.
Verisk CargoNet's analysis of 184 cargo thefts occurring between July 1-7 over the past five years reveals critical patterns logistics companies should consider addressing:
- Peak Risk Days: July 1 and July 3 represent the highest-risk days during the holiday period, with theft activity generally concentrated around extended weekend closures.
- Dramatic Surge in Theft Activity: Cargo theft rates have escalated far beyond historical norms. While Verisk CargoNet averaged four theft reports per day between 2013-2022, recent years show the problem continues to escalate: eight reports daily in 2023, 10 in 2024, and 11 in 2025.
- Geographic Hotspots: California, Texas, and Illinois remain the most targeted states. Logistics operations in Los Angeles County; San Bernardino County; Dallas County, Texas; Cook County, Illinois; and Shelby County, Tennessee face the highest risk exposure.
- Prime Targets: Current theft trends focus heavily on non-alcoholic beverages, vehicle accessories (especially tires and automotive parts), computer electronics, and major appliances.
- Theft Methodology: Reports of direct cargo and vehicle theft continue to significantly outnumber reports of sophisticated fraud schemes, indicating a higher rate of direct action theft during vulnerable periods.
RELATED NEWS: July Fourth weekend provides increased opportunities for cargo thieves
Previous Independence Day weeks have seen substantial losses across multiple sectors:
- $700,000 in e-cigarettes stolen from Eastvale, California
- $540,000 in apparel theft from Elk Grove Village, Illinois
- $439,895 in medical supplies from Davenport, Florida
- $352,000 in computer electronics from San Francisco, California
- $314,191 in computer electronics from Commerce, California
"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," said Keith Lewis, vice president of Operations at Verisk CargoNet. "With theft rates nearly tripling over the past decade, logistics companies must prioritize enhanced security measures during holiday periods to protect their assets and maintain supply chain integrity."
The data highlights the need for enhanced security protocols during holiday periods when normal business operations are disrupted. Companies should implement additional safeguards including increased facility monitoring, enhanced driver communication protocols, and coordinated security measures with law enforcement partners.
