Verisk Warns of Rising Cargo Theft Risk Over the 4th of July Weekend

Cargo theft activity surrounding the July 4 holiday has intensified in recent years, according to a new advisory from Verisk’s CargoNet. The firm urges logistics providers to be especially vigilant in the days leading up to the holiday, citing increased theft rates during periods of extended business closures.

“Extended closures create prime opportunities for thieves,” CargoNet noted in its alert, which analyzed five years of theft data.

July 1 and 3: Peak Theft Dates

CargoNet examined 184 theft incidents between July 1 and July 7 over the past five years. The data show a distinct concentration of thefts on July 1 and July 3—days when many operations begin winding down ahead of the national holiday.

The firm warns that cargo is particularly vulnerable during these “long weekend” closures, when facilities may be unmanned or operating with reduced oversight.

Most Targeted States and Cargo Types

Cargo theft reports are highest in:

• California
• Texas
• Illinois

Frequently targeted commodities include:

• Non-alcoholic beverages
• Vehicle accessories
• Computer electronics
• Major appliances

While fraud-based schemes remain a persistent threat throughout the year, Verisk reports that direct cargo and vehicle thefts dominate the July 4 data set. This suggests more traditional, on-the-ground theft tactics during this time window.

Notable July 4 Holiday Thefts in Recent Years:

• $700,000 in e-cigarettes – Eastvale, CA
• $540,000 in apparel – Elk Grove Village, IL
• $439,895 in medical supplies – Davenport, FL
• $352,000 in computer electronics – San Francisco, CA
• $314,191 in computer electronics – Commerce, CA

Mitigation Strategies Urged

With the holiday approaching, Verisk recommends:

• Increased site security measures at warehouses and yards
• Limited idle time for loaded trailers
• Enhanced driver vetting and cargo tracking systems

Source: Claims Journal