Remember: It didn’t just fall off the back of a lorry – it was probably stolen by one of the Organised Crime Groups, who target the UK freight industry on an ongoing basis.
It’s early days, but so far in 2021, our partners at NaVCIS are reporting that although theft from curtain slashing remains a very common form of freight theft, there is also a worrying increase in the theft of full trailers or containers. These thefts are sometimes from locations which are just not secure enough and the thieves break in overnight to steal a full container.
Thieves are also stealing containers using deception.
They obtain access to what should be a secure location, purporting to be a genuine haulier.
The thieves then hook up to a container or trailer and drive away with a full load.
The thieves are getting braver and more innovative. Fences, cameras and guards do not always keep them out.
Most hauliers will be well aware of the established ‘round the corner’ deception, where a driver is invited to unload at a different location from the arranged drop. However, the latest M.O. involves a driver arriving at a location, usually in a stolen tractor unit, with credible information, sufficient to persuade security or despatch to grant access to the site. The driver will then either hook up to a trailer which they may have previously identified or will take any available full trailer. All manufacturers, distributors and hauliers should ensure that procedures are in place to check that a driver is expected and that he or she has the appropriate identification. Also ensure that your consignment and carrier information is kept secure. It is easier for Thieves to deceive others when they have knowledge supported by real information.
Deception theft can also be associated with criminals who exploit the Haulage Exchanges.
When used correctly, Haulage Exchanges are a great platform for independent operators.
However, if the appropriate checks are not carried out, then criminals can infiltrate the process and fraudulently obtain access to a load.
NaVCIS recommends using some or all of the checks listed below, when dealing with new companies, particularly when engaging through an exchange:
Due diligence when dealing with new companies:
1. Ensure Validation of the company street address
2. Ensure Validation of the company office address
3. Number of years at current location
4. Insurance policy coverage and cross reference
5. Company ownership history
6. Assets / Financial history / number of employees
7. Validation of company website for inconsistencies
8. Consider physical visit to company office –meeting the owners
9. Verify landline number matches website
10. Verify email address’ match email domains on website
11. Do not rely on mobile telephone numbers for authenticity
12. Phone call to company landline to confirm person making order actually works for the company and has made an order!!!
13. CCTV in the area where drivers are signing loads out
If you would like to be better prepared to meet the security and safety challenges offered by Organised Crime Groups, we offer a short online training course ‘Driver Safety and Freight Security’. If you wish to know more please contact us on 01635 861242 or info@antevortegroup.com
SAVE A LOAD, SAVE A LORRY, SAVE A LIVELIHOOD
