How to prevent cargo theft with telematics

Learn how a fleet management system can be a powerful ally in preventing cargo theft in your fleet. 

It is an indisputable fact that the global pandemic seriously affected supply chains and increased cargo theft on fleets worldwide. Unfortunately, thieves seem to consider freight trucks incredibly tempting targets as they often carry high-value and well-packed products in identifiable containers. For example, in the United States, although numbers vary, cargo theft ranges from $15 billion to $35 billion annually and continues to rise, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

A good strategy for fleet managers to protect their vehicles and cargo is to resort to telematics systems. Vehicle tracking is telematics’ most popular use in fleet management since it allows companies to access the position of every vehicle in their fleet 24/7 and thus prevent fleet cargo theft or act immediately afterward, avoiding major losses.

Frotcom's fleet management system is a powerful asset against fleet theft. Regarding cargo security,  a vehicle access control system can alert you whenever a door in your vehicle is opened or closed.
Additionally, you can specify that doors can only be opened in your warehouse or at client drop-off sites. Frotcom will notify you via email or SMS if someone opens them outside the permitted locations.

With Frotcom's Fleet alarms, you can also configure a combined set of alarms tailored to your needs to avoid vehicle and cargo theft or damage to the transported cargo. Moreover, you can notify multiple users and specify different levels of alarms; set an initial alarm level to warn the driver and then scale it up to a higher level if the situation remains unresolved. Among the most frequently used alarms are Open Door, Area Entrance and Exit, or Vehicle Usage Out of Permitted Period, which enables you to act immediately and ensure your drivers and cargo safety, avoiding unnecessary costs and leaving services unfulfilled.

In addition, Frotcom allows the installation of a Panic button, a concealed button your drivers can quickly press in an emergency, far from the thieves' sight. In the case the vehicle is stolen, the Remote vehicle immobilization feature allows you to immobilize the vehicle remotely via the Frotcom interface once the thief has stopped the vehicle and the ignition has been turned off.

Lastly, Frotcom's Fuel management can also be an essential ally in case of fuel theft. It allows you to monitor your vehicles' fuel consumption and levels 24/7 and find the causes for fuel fluctuations, quickly identifying situations of theft or unauthorized use. 

For extra security, don't forget to add Frotcom's "GPS Controlled" sticker to your vehicle to discourage thieves. A simple solution like this can make a big difference in ensuring your cargo's and drivers' safety!!
Frotcom’s fleet management system can help you protect your vehicles and cargo against theft. To know more, contact a member of our team.