Cargo theft continues to disrupt global supply chains, with criminals using more advanced methods and targeting high-value goods, according to a new report by TT Club and BSI Consulting.
The 2025 Cargo Theft Report shows that theft is not declining. Instead, it is becoming more organised, more targeted, and harder to detect.
Global hotspots and key data
Cargo theft remains concentrated in major markets. Brazil, Mexico, the United States, India, and Indonesia report the highest number of incidents. Ecuador has seen one of the sharpest increases.
Road transport is the most exposed. Trucks account for around 70% of all theft cases. This highlights the risks linked to in-transit cargo.
Food and beverage products remain the most stolen goods. Agriculture and electronics follow. These products are easy to resell and widely available.
Criminal tactics are evolving
Cargo theft is no longer just opportunistic. Criminal groups now use coordinated and technology-driven methods.
These include:
- fake documents and identity fraud
- cargo diversion and impersonation
- cyber-enabled attacks
- exploitation of multimodal transport gaps.
Insider involvement is also a major issue. Around 22% of global theft cases involve employees or internal actors. Weak controls and poor oversight often enable these incidents.
Regional risks are increasing
In North America, organised crime is driving more complex theft operations. Rail cargo theft is also rising.
In Europe, Germany and Italy remain key hotspots. Theft often occurs at warehouses, parking areas and rest stops.
In Asia, theft is more facility-based. Warehouses and production sites are common targets. Insider involvement is especially high in this region.
New targets and emerging risks
Criminals are adapting to market conditions. They are targeting goods with higher value and demand.
The report highlights growing risks in:
- pharmaceuticals
- rare earth minerals.
These shifts show how quickly theft patterns can change.
Digital platforms are also creating new vulnerabilities. Load boards and freight marketplaces are being used by criminals to identify and intercept cargo.
Pressure on supply chain security
The report warns that cargo theft will remain a major challenge. Risks are linked to market volatility, supply chain complexity and weak control points.
Companies need to act faster. Stronger security, better data control and closer industry cooperation are critical.
Cargo theft is no longer just a loss issue. It is a strategic risk for global supply chains.
