Reducing risk is critical when it comes to transporting high-value cargo, especially in the post-Covid environment where criminals are adopting new tactics to target the changing environment of freight transportation.With the cost of cargo crime becoming a major concern for all supply chain stakeholders, and in view of its detrimental effect on consumers in terms of increased costs, delayed orders and product shortages, the Transported Asset Protection Association (Tapa) is actively advocating for increased security of cargo.According to Tapa, some new tactics identified in the past year include the increased targeting of freight transportation service exchange apps and websites. These freight service applications, which criminals have already taken advantage of in recent years, specifically in Brazil, involve companies posting listings for truck drivers to help move goods. By utilising applications that require significantly less vetting than other methods, criminals are more easily able to present themselves as legitimate carriers.Throughout 2021, Tapa received reports of a rise in fictitious pickups and fraudulent carriers, highlighting the expansion of this risk worldwide.Tapa says employee background screening, including criminal history checks, is now more important than ever before. Pictures or copies of identity documents are a must and verification of all service providers is non-negotiable.They advise that where possible, companies should set up pre-alerts such as the driver’s name, trailer number and licence plate number in advance and have appointment times for pickups. Checking identity information is not enough, and this information should be recorded wherever possible.Continuous training of staff is another priority within logistics organisations, according to Tapa.
