One cargo theft tracking and recovery organization says the next several weeks is expected to be the most active time for cargo thieves.
As the holiday season approaches, shippers across the United States and Mexico should prepare for heightened cargo risks, according to Texas-based Overhaul. Historically, the last quarter of the year has proven to be the most critical period for supply chain security, with October and November consistently showing the highest number of reported incidents, accordingto Overhaul. While trends generally begin to taper off by the second week of December, this earlier window represents a significant threat environment for shippers and logistics providers.
The company said electronics remain particularly vulnerable during this time of year, as demand for these goods rises and organized cargo theft groups actively target them for resale. High-value items such as laptops, gaming consoles, and mobile devices are consistently sought out by thieves who exploit the increased shipping volumes and temporary staging practices common during peak season.
Overhaul said, this period also shows an uptick in hijacking and pilferage events, with last-mile courier units facing greater exposure. The rapid increase in deliveries, coupled with congested urban routes and frequent unattended stops, creates prime opportunities for criminals to intercept or partially offload cargo.
Smaller, cost-dense goods that can be easily resold are especially at risk in these operations, said Overhaul. Warehouses, distribution centers, and staging areas will also see heightened risk due to reduced oversight and limited staffing during the holiday period. Extended downtimes give criminals more time to identify vulnerabilities, carry out thefts, and delay detection.
However, there are things shippers and carriers can do to lessen their exposure to cargo thieves, whcih a recent American Transportation Research Institute report said accounts for $18 million in thefts each day.
To mitigate these seasonal risks, it is crucial for shippers to implement layered security measures. Facilities should verify staffing and security system readiness during peak shipping windows, and shippers should coordinate closely with receivers to confirm operational schedules ahead of time.
For over-the-road shipments, carriers should avoid unnecessary staging and prioritize secure, well-lit stops, positioning trailers with doors backed against solid surfaces whenever possible.
For last-mile operations, strict monitoring of courier routes and immediate escalation procedures are critical to countering hijacking and pilferage threats. Leveraging real-time visibility platforms and rapid law enforcement engagement, such as Overhaul’s LE Connect network, can greatly increase recovery success in the event of theft.
