The number of truck cargo thefts in the U.S. declined by about 11 percent last quarter but the value of each heist has increased dramatically – by 89% — according to a new report from the logistics security services provider FreightWatch International.
Electronics was the product type most often stolen, reports the firm – comprising 19% of all incidents. Products targeted in this category include televisions, mobile phones and mixed consumer electronics.
The food/drinks industry experienced 16% of the total thefts, mainly consisting of meats, packaged foods and carbonated drinks. Eleven percent of all incidents were in the home/garden product type, including appliances, home décor items and cleaning supplies.
Florida experienced the most thefts (25%), followed by California, Texas and Georgia.
Of the incidents in which a location type was recorded, unsecured parking was the most common by far – 87% of the total.
The pharmaceuticals sector had the highest average loss value this quarter at $5.6 million. Clothing/shoes, averaged $540,218 in losses. Electronics followed, with an average loss value of $425,420.