
Transportation companies are being warned to prepare for heightened cargo theft risks during the Thanksgiving holiday in the U.S., as criminals continue to evolve their methods. CargoNet has reported over 450 fictitious pickup attempts so far in 2024, putting the year on track to exceed last year’s record levels.
This trend highlights a shift toward more sophisticated fraud schemes, CargoNet said, as it advised transportation companies to increase security measures during the holiday period.
Data from CargoNet reveals that between 2019 and 2023 (from the Tuesday before Thanksgiving through the Monday after), 174 theft incidents were reported, resulting in a total loss value of US$7.8 million. The average value of each theft reached $159,971.

CargoNet analysts identified the Monday following Thanksgiving as the peak day for criminal activity, coinciding with a surge in identity fraud complaints. Thieves appear to exploit both the extended holiday closure and decreased vigilance following the holiday weekend. California led the states with the highest number of theft incidents, followed by Illinois and Texas, with 44, 22, and 14 incidents, respectively.
Cargo theft investigations reveal consistent patterns in the commodities targeted by criminals, CargoNet reports. Freight all-kinds (FAK) shipments, hard liquor, and vehicle accessories—particularly tires and motor oil—remain primary targets. CargoNet says historical cases suggest these targets are selected based on established relationships with black market buyers, pointing to sophisticated criminal networks operating within the supply chain.
Thanksgiving creates a perfect storm for cargo thieves, with extended facility closures and reduced staffing disrupting normal operations. Criminals exploit these vulnerabilities, targeting high-value commodities and using advanced identity fraud schemes.
CargoNet recommends implementing extra shipment verification steps, especially in high-risk areas, and increasing protections for frequently targeted goods.
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