CargoNet reports ‘record-breaking’ cargo theft activity in Canada and the U.S. in 2024, with 3,625 reported incidents marking a 27% increase over 2023. The average value per theft also climbed to $202,364 (all figures US), up from $187,895 the previous year.

Each quarter of 2024 surpassed previous records set in 2023, with the biggest spike occurring in Q1, which saw 317 more incidents than the same period the year before. The rate of increase narrowed as the year progressed, with Q4 showing an 11.81% year-over-year growth in cargo theft.

Notable shifts occurred in targeted commodities during 2024, according to CargoNet. While 2023 saw frequent theft of engine oils, fluids, solar energy products, and energy drinks, last year marked a strategic pivot by criminals.

New targets included raw and finished copper products, consumer electronics (particularly audio equipment and high-end servers), and cryptocurrency mining hardware. CargoNet also reports the increased targeting of specific consumable goods, including produce like avocados and nuts, and personal care products ranging from cosmetics to vitamins and supplements, especially protein powder.

California, Texas lead in cargo theft

Geographic trends show that California and Texas are experiencing the most significant increases in theft activity. California had a 33% rise in incidents, while Texas saw a 39% surge. Dallas County, Texas, led with a 78% increase in reported thefts. In California, Los Angeles County recorded a 50% rise, and neighboring San Bernardino County experienced a 47% uptick.

While theft-by-deception schemes garnered significant media attention throughout the year, traditional cargo theft methods remain most common. Trailer burglaries and full trailer theft continue at ‘elevated levels’, especially in major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, Dallas-Fort Worth, Atlanta, and New York City.

“The data suggests an evolving and increasingly sophisticated threat landscape in cargo theft, with criminal enterprises demonstrating tactical adaptability in both their methods and target selection,” CargoNet wrote, adding that in 2025, it anticipates a continuation of these trends, with organized criminal enterprises maintaining aggressive targeting of supply chain vulnerabilities.