The Sensiguard (Formerly known as Freightwatch) Supply Chain Intelligence Center (SCIC) has released their Cargo Theft Annual Report.
Thefts in the US have reduced for a 4th consecutive year, a 15% drop in volume overall. Sounds great, right ? It does, but there is plenty to worry about when you dig deeper into the data.
- The United States remains ranked second gravest level on the SCIC risk scale, at “High” risk.
- Delays in reporting can increase the totals for 2017 above the numbers in the report
- There is a marked increase in Miscellaneous thefts (primarily LTL shipments)
- Pilferage rates are record breaking. Pilfering is used as intelligence gathering before obtaining cargo. A 40% rise since 2016.
- Four out of the top five states have seen an increase or steady theft numbers.
What does all this mean ? The reduction may be hiding a more sinister truth, that thieves may be becoming more sophisticated, not less.