Cargo Theft in Transit. How to Avoid Losses and Win Claims?

Cargo theft is a significant problem in the shipping industry, with an estimated $30 billion lost each year due to the theft of cargo and related expenses.  Of all the cargo claims submitted to Recoupex  in 2022, 17% were due to cargo loss in transit.

One of the most effective ways to prevent cargo theft is by using container seals, which provide a tamper-evident seal on shipping containers. However, there are still common problems that arise from cargo theft, even with the use of container seals.

Container seals are designed to provide evidence of tampering with a container. When a container is sealed, it is locked with a tamper-evident seal that cannot be removed without leaving visible evidence of tampering. This allows shippers to verify that their cargo has not been stolen or tampered with during transit. However, even with the use of container seals, cargo theft can still occur.

One of the most common problems that arise from cargo theft is the theft of the entire container. In some cases, thieves will steal or hijacked the entire container. This type of theft is difficult to prevent, but it can be mitigated by using GPS tracking devices and vetting trucking companies better.

Another common problem that arises from cargo theft is the theft from within a container – container manipulation without touching the seal.  Thieves may use various methods to gain access to the container, such as cutting through the container wall, and unscrewing the doors. Once inside, they may steal high-value items such as electronics, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals.

Finally, cargo theft can also occur due to the improper use of container seals. For example, if a seal is not properly attached, it may be easy for thieves to remove or tamper with the seal without leaving visible evidence of tampering. Additionally, if a seal is not properly inspected and verified before a container is shipped, it may be possible for thieves to replace the seal with a counterfeit seal that looks identical but is easily removed.

In conclusion, while container seals are an effective tool for preventing cargo theft, they are not foolproof. To prevent cargo theft, shippers must use a variety of security measures, including high-security seals, GPS tracking devices, and proper inspection and verification of container seals. By taking a proactive approach to cargo security, shippers can protect their cargo and reduce the risk of theft and related expenses. In case cargo is still stolen in transit, have your documents ready to pursue a claim recovery from the liable carrier.

​​Recoupex is one of the fastest growing cargo claims recovery hubs helping customers globally to obtain the compensation they are entitled to when cargo is lost or damaged in transit (ocean, multimodal, air shipments: dry and refrigerated cargo). If you think Maersk, Sealand, Hapag-Lloyd, Mediterranean Shipping Company – MSC, CMA CGM, and other carriers might owe you compensation because of cargo loss or damages, you’ve come to the right place.  Recoupex has recovered thousands for shippers around the globe and they could help you win back the compensation you deserve for lost or damaged cargo in transit.   If they don’t win- you don’t pay.