The escalating incidence of cargo crime presents significant challenges to the freight sectors in both the United States and Mexico, impacting the efficiency and security of cross-border logistics. As global trade continues to expand, the vulnerabilities within supply chains have become increasingly evident, with criminal activities ranging from theft and hijacking to organized smuggling operations. These crimes not only jeopardize the integrity of cargo but also result in substantial financial losses for businesses, insurance companies, and ultimately consumers. 

The U.S. and Mexican freight industries are intricately linked, with a vast network of transportation routes facilitating the movement of goods across the border. However, this interconnectedness also magnifies the risks associated with cargo crime, as criminals exploit the complexities of international transit. Understanding the multifaceted impact of these criminal activities is crucial for stakeholders in both countries, as they seek to implement effective prevention strategies and mitigate risks. This article delves into the nature and trends of cargo crime affecting the freight sectors in the U.S. and Mexico, examining its ramifications on economic stability, supply chain resilience, and the broader implications for trade relations between the two nations.

Rising Wave of Cargo Theft Across North America

Cargo theft incidents have surged significantly in the United States during the second quarter, while Mexico's freight sector reported that a staggering 82% of thefts involving carriers included some form of violence in the same timeframe.

According to Overhaul's Q2 2025 cargo theft analysis, both nations experienced targeted thefts across various categories, including electronics, food and beverages, and construction supplies. The findings show that organized criminal activity continues to evolve, posing ongoing challenges for logistics and freight operators across the continent.

Danny Ramon, Overhaul’s head of intelligence, highlighted during a recent webinar that “strategic theft and large-scale pilferage are the primary factors contributing to the rising volume and complexity of cargo theft in the U.S. at present.” His insights underscore the increasing sophistication of criminal tactics and the urgency for carriers to adopt stronger preventive measures.

U.S. Cargo Thefts Surge by 33%

In the United States, cargo thefts rose by 33% year-over-year in the second quarter, totaling 525 incidents. Criminal activity was particularly concentrated in California, which accounted for 38% of all cases, followed by Texas (21%), Tennessee (15%), Pennsylvania (10%), and Illinois (7%).

Notably, the regions surrounding Los Angeles and Long Beach alone represented 36% of all cargo thefts in the U.S. during this period, according to Overhaul's report. Ramon observed a “recentralization” of theft activity in California, noting that while thefts had previously diversified along major interstate corridors such as I-10 and I-40, many criminal networks are once again focusing operations in the Golden State.

The ongoing tariff disputes between the U.S. and other nations have also influenced these patterns. Many shippers have accelerated imports into California ports, increasing cargo density and theft opportunities in those areas. While the eastern U.S. did not experience the same escalation, there were notable increases in states such as Tennessee, Pennsylvania, and Illinois.

Targeted Goods and Common Theft Methods in the U.S.

Overhaul’s report revealed that the electronics sector remains one of the most targeted categories for cargo theft. Mixed electronic loads represented 29% of stolen goods, followed by batteries and panels (18%), computers (14%), and televisions or displays (11%).

In the food and beverage category, coffee, energy drinks, and sports drinks made up 21% of theft incidents, while produce and confectionery items accounted for 15%. The home and garden sector also saw high theft activity, with appliances representing 38% and pet supplies 21% of those incidents.

Pilferage—small-scale theft of goods from shipments—remained the most common method, accounting for 52% of all incidents. Full truckload thefts represented 22%, with Texas leading these cases at 56%, followed by Illinois (12%), Pennsylvania (7%), and California (7%). Thefts from facilities remained steady year-over-year at 14%, while deceptive pickups rose to 7%. Interestingly, thefts involving last-mile couriers dropped to just 2%, although hijackings increased slightly by 3% compared to the previous year.

Mexico Faces Intensifying Cargo Theft and Violence

In Mexico, cargo theft continues to be a serious and often violent issue. The states of Puebla, Guanajuato, Michoacán, Veracruz, San Luis Potosí, and the State of Mexico accounted for 70% of all cargo thefts during the second quarter.

Specifically, Puebla and the State of Mexico were the most affected regions, contributing 23.5% and 20% of incidents, respectively. These central locations remain critical transit hubs, making them prime targets for organized theft groups.

The most frequently stolen products in Mexico included food and beverages (33%) and building and industrial materials (10%). The most prevalent method of theft involved intercepting trucks in transit, which occurred in 65% of reported cases. The second most common scenario involved thefts from unsecured parking areas, accounting for 34% of incidents.

Conclusion: A Call for Stronger Preventive Strategies

The surge in cargo theft across North America—particularly in the U.S. and Mexico—highlights the urgent need for enhanced cargo security protocols and proactive risk management. As theft patterns evolve and criminals employ more strategic methods, carriers must invest in advanced tracking systems, driver training, and secure parking solutions to safeguard their freight.

Collaborative efforts among shippers, law enforcement, and industry organizations will also be crucial in curbing these losses. Staying informed and adopting modern prevention technologies can help businesses minimize risk and maintain resilience in the face of a growing cargo theft epidemic.

Stay Protected and Compliant in an Evolving Freight Landscape

As cargo theft incidents continue to rise across North America, proactive risk management and regulatory compliance have never been more essential for trucking and logistics professionals. Staying informed about industry trends, security measures, and compliance requirements can help protect your business and your livelihood.

At Labworks USA, we are committed to supporting drivers and carriers not only through up-to-date insights into the freight and logistics industry but also by ensuring you stay fully compliant with DOT drug and alcohol testing requirements. Our DOT Consortium team is ready to guide you through every step — from maintaining compliance with random drug and alcohol testing to assisting with FMCSA Clearinghouse registration.

Stay connected with us for the latest updates, actionable strategies, and compliance solutions that keep your operations safe, efficient, and fully protected.

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