Freight Fraud and Cargo Theft Continues To Plague the Logistics Industry

Freight fraud and cargo theft is nothing new in the logistics industry. In 2025, however, these problems are only getting worse. We’ll take a look at what the data says and how shippers across the US are being affected.

Freight Fraud and Cargo Theft Data

Although 2025 isn’t over, there’s plenty of data from Q1 and Q2 that show freight fraud is becoming increasingly more common. 

One carrier identification platform released data from Q1 and Q2 that shows the amount of fraudulent emails and suspicious phone numbers they blocked.

Q1 data includes:

• 352,134 fraudulent emails
• 30,921 suspicious phone numbers

Q2 data includes:

• 495,267 fraudulent emails
• 42,421 suspicious phone numbers

During Q2, the platform also received 2,281 identity alerts. Cargo thefts were high during the first two quarters as well. 

In Q1 alone, there were 787 cargo thefts recorded across the US and Canada. During Q2, the number of freight thefts rose to 884.

For both quarters, the most commonly targeted commodities were food, beverages, and household goods. Freight theft occurred most often at warehouses/distribution centers and in parking lots during Q1, while freight thefts occurred most often at warehouse/distribution centers and truck stops during Q2. 

How Are Shippers Affected?

Needless to say, freight fraud and cargo theft lead to serious financial strain for businesses. 

Here’s some data showing the devastating impact:

• Q1 total losses: $59,488,135
• Q2 total losses: $61,686,565

These losses don’t just affect businesses financially, it also disrupts their entire supply chain. They have to struggle to replace goods that have been stolen and keep other shipments flowing smoothly.   

Although criminals are to blame for freight fraud and cargo theft, customers that have to wait for replacement items are likely to be upset. This can lead to reputational damage for brands. 

How R+L Global Protects Its Customers from Freight Fraud and Cargo Theft

Here at R+L Global Logistics, we use a vetted carrier network to transport freight for our customers. The reliability and trustworthiness of our partners helps us reduce the risk of fraud or theft. 

We also use tracking technology to monitor all our shipments. This provides visibility for our customers and allows us to detect if something is going wrong. 

Our warehouses also use various security systems. That means freight can only leave our facilities through authorized processes.