Lawmakers Push to Expand FMCSA’s Power to Combat Rising Cargo Theft
Cargo theft is surging in the trucking industry, and lawmakers are now considering giving the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) more authority to combat the crisis. During a recent Senate Commerce Committee hearing, industry experts and law enforcement officials testified on the 1,500% increase in cargo theft since 2022 and the need for stronger regulations to prevent fraud.
For trucking companies, brokers, and independent owner-operators, cargo theft is a growing threat that affects profitability, safety, and supply chain security. Here’s what you need to know about the proposed changes and how they could impact the industry.
Cargo Theft on the Rise: The Numbers
Cargo theft has become a multibillion-dollar issue in the U.S., with criminals using increasingly sophisticated tactics to steal freight.
📊 Key Cargo Theft Statistics (2022-2025):
✅ 1,500% increase in cargo theft incidents (CargoNet data)
✅ 33% of all cargo theft now targets trucking companies
✅ $100+ million in losses for freight railroads in 2024
✅ 65,000+ reported rail thefts in 2024—a 40% year-over-year increase
🚨 What’s Driving the Increase?
Identity spoofing: Criminals impersonate legitimate trucking companies and brokers.
Cyber fraud: Fake DOT/MC numbers and SAFER database listings allow thieves to pose as carriers.
Physical theft: Armed cargo hijackings and warehouse break-ins are rising.
Why Trucking Executives Want FMCSA to Take the Lead
Industry leaders argue that the FMCSA should serve as the "quarterback" in coordinating anti-theft efforts across federal and state law enforcement agencies.
🚛 Adam Blanchard, CEO of Double Diamond Transport and Tanager Logistics, testified that:
His company fell victim to a massive cargo fraud scheme where criminals stole a full truckload of energy drinks by spoofing his brokerage’s email.
The FMCSA refused to remove a fraudulent company listing from its database, despite clear evidence of fraud.
Brokers and carriers face blacklisting and financial losses when scammers exploit their identity.
💡 Key Industry Demands for FMCSA:
✅ Create a centralized cargo theft database for law enforcement.
✅ Improve cybersecurity to prevent fraud.
✅ Increase penalties for cargo theft and identity spoofing.
Blanchard’s frustration is echoed by other trucking professionals, who struggle to get law enforcement to act on cargo theft cases, leaving them to deal with the losses alone.
Proposed Solutions: Strengthening FMCSA’s Oversight
🔹 Establish a Federal Cargo Theft Task Force
Lawmakers and law enforcement propose a national crime coordination center to track and combat cargo theft across state lines.
This would help streamline investigations and improve response times.
🔹 Stronger Vetting for New Trucking Companies
FMCSA’s current system allows fraudulent carriers to register fake DOT/MC numbers.
Experts recommend real-time carrier verification and tighter controls on company registrations.
🔹 Reallocate FMCSA’s Budget to Address Cargo Theft
Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) VP Lewie Pugh argues that FMCSA already has funding but needs to prioritize cargo theft as a safety issue.
Cargo theft cuts into truckers' margins, making it harder for them to maintain their equipment, which can impact overall road safety.
How This Impacts Truckers, Brokers, and Fleets
📢 What Trucking Companies Need to Know:
✅ Regulatory changes are coming—carriers and brokers should prepare for new compliance measures.
✅ FMCSA may soon have more authority to penalize fraudulent actors.
✅ Cargo security protocols should be strengthened—carriers should vet partners, monitor loads, and use GPS tracking.
📢 For Brokers:
✅ Be extra cautious with carrier verification—double-check DOT/MC numbers and email domains.
✅ Implement cybersecurity best practices to prevent identity spoofing.
✅ Work with trusted insurance providers to cover potential cargo theft losses.
📢 For Independent Truckers:
✅ Protect yourself from fraudulent load assignments—verify brokers before accepting hauls.
✅ Report suspicious activity to CargoNet or law enforcement.
✅ Stay informed about new FMCSA regulations that could improve industry protections.
Final Thoughts: The Road Ahead for Cargo Theft Prevention
The trucking industry is under siege from cargo thieves, and FMCSA’s role in combating this crisis is being called into question. Lawmakers and industry leaders agree that stronger enforcement, better cybersecurity, and increased penalties are necessary.
🚛 Key Takeaways:
✅ Cargo theft is up 1,500%, costing trucking and rail billions.
✅ FMCSA may gain more power to track and prevent theft.
✅ Brokers and carriers must improve cybersecurity and vetting procedures.
At Allcom Insurance, we help trucking companies and brokers protect their assets against cargo theft risks. If you’re looking for cargo insurance, liability protection, or risk management solutions, we’ve got you covered.
📞 Need expert trucking insurance advice? Contact Allcom Insurance today!