A recent analysis by Verisk Analytics-owned CargoNet revealed that cargo thefts in the U.S. and Canada jumped 15% in 2022. Events that involved theft of at least one heavy commercial vehicle such as a semi-truck or semi-trailer rose 17% year-over-year while events that involved theft of cargo surged 20%, according to the Jersey City, N.J.-based data firm. The company also noted a 600% increase in fictitious cargo pickups, which combine identity theft and cargo theft.
The average value of cargo stolen was $214,104 per event. CargoNet estimates $223 mill-
ion in cargo was stolen across all events in 2022. Almost half of all thefts occurred in three states — California, Texas and Florida — but thefts in Georgia jumped 34% from 2021 to 2022. Top locations targeted by thieves were warehouses/distribution centers and parking lots. Although household goods and electronics were stolen most often, CargoNet said scarcity and rising costs drove illicit market demand for raw beef, poultry and pork as well.
