Layered security approach – Operational and procedural security

Scope

A layered security approach applies to drivers, managers, supervisors, and front-line employees.

Regulatory citations

• None

Key Definitions

• Background checks for employees: To mitigate the risk of insider theft, motor carriers must conduct thorough background checks on all employees, including drivers, warehouse workers, and other personnel with access to cargo. Criminal background checks, employment history verification, and drug screening are essential components of a secure workforce.
• Cargo inspection and documentation: Regular inspections and detailed documentation of the cargo before departure can provide essential evidence in case of theft. Documentation should include photos, serial numbers, and any other identifying marks on high-value goods. Inspections should also be carried out at various points during transit to ensure that the cargo remains secure
• Driver training: Educating drivers about the security protocols they must follow is one of the most effective ways to reduce cargo theft. Drivers should be trained on how to secure cargo properly, how to identify suspicious activity, and how to handle situations where they might be at risk of theft. Training should also cover the importance of maintaining strict communication with dispatchers and reporting any security breaches immediately.
• Route planning and risk assessment: By analyzing historical theft patterns and assessing risk levels, motor carriers can design safer, more secure routes. High-crime areas or regions with a history of theft should be avoided when possible, and drivers should be instructed to follow specific protocols when passing through known hotspots.
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Establishing clear, comprehensive SOPs for every stage of the cargo handling process, from loading and unloading to in-transit security, ensures that employees follow consistent, secure practices. This reduces the chances of theft due to negligence or misunderstanding.

Summary of requirements

Cargo theft in the trucking industry remains a significant threat to the safety and efficiency of global supply chains. To mitigate these risks, motor carriers must adopt a layered security approach that incorporates physical security, advanced technology, robust operational protocols, and comprehensive employee training. By understanding where and how theft occurs, and implementing best practices at each stage of transportation, carriers can minimize their exposure to theft and ensure the protection of valuable cargo.