CargoNet, a Verisk Analytics service, recorded 884 cargo theft events in the US and Canada between April and June 2025. This marks a 13% increase compared to Q2 2024 and a 10% rise from Q1 2025 (verisk.com).

The total estimated loss exceeded $128 million, with each stolen shipment averaging $203,586.

The Quarterly Trend:  

April: +14.6%  

May: +4.4%  

June: +21.9%

This acceleration indicates that thieves are becoming increasingly bold. Logistics operators must tighten security quickly.

High-Value Goods in the Crosshairs  

Metals (mainly copper)  

Theft incidents increased by 96% year-over-year, reaching 53 reported cases.  

These thefts are closely linked to rising copper prices, which are near record highs. Thieves pursue profit where demand is strong.

Food & Beverage  

There were 180 incidents, up 68% year-on-year. Alcohol, energy drinks, and meat are primary targets. These items account for over 20% of total cargo thefts.

A Smarter Adversary: Strategic Organized Crime  

Criminals are now focusing on high-value goods with quick resale potential rather than taking random loads.  

Their tactics include document fraud, identity theft, license plate swapping, GPS spoofing, and fake carrier credentials.

How IKIN Global Helps Tackle This Threat  

At IKIN Global, we are facing this growing threat directly with smart locks and digital access control systems designed for logistics and supply chain operations. Our B2B smart lock solutions are:

•⁠  ⁠Tamper-evident  

•⁠  ⁠Digitally controlled and monitored  

•⁠  ⁠Driver-friendly with secure unlocking methods  

•⁠  ⁠Ideal for high-risk shipments like metals, electronics, and perishables  

In a situation where thieves exploit every weakness, our systems provide businesses with full visibility and control over who accesses cargo, when, and where. Learn more at ikinglobal.com.

Bigger Picture  

Cargo theft is part of a larger trend. In 2024, there were 3,798 incidents, a 26% year-on-year increase. Underreporting makes it hard to see the full scale. Actual losses may exceed $1 billion annually.  

Copper theft alone is up 61% in the first half of 2025, supported by nearly 35% price increases this year.

What the Logistics Industry Needs to Do  

• Layered Security  

•  ⁠Physical (locks, patrols, secure yards)  

• Digital (ID verification, document validation, GPS integrity)  

• Real-Time Risk Intelligence  

Use threat monitoring, alerts, and analytics platforms to detect suspicious activity.

• Industry Collaboration  

Share intelligence among shippers, carriers, and law enforcement to trace fraud trends.

• Advocate for Stronger Laws  

Support proposed bills like the Combating Organized Retail Crime and the Household Goods Shipping Consumer Protection Act.

• Tech-Enabled Vetting  

Use digital platforms to validate carriers, check credentials, and identify anomalies.

Bottom Line for Readers  

Cargo theft in Q2 2025 is rising rapidly, fueled by organized crime targeting high-value items. These thefts are not random; they involve careful planning and the use of technology.  

To stay secure, logistics businesses need to adapt quickly. IKIN Global’s smart lock technology is one of the easiest and most effective ways to strengthen cargo control and lower theft risk, especially for high-value shipments.