Senate Commerce Hearing Highlights Freight Fraud: Join TIA’s Efforts for Stronger Enforcement

TIA, along with industry leaders from rail, retail, trucking, and merchandise, are actively seeking legislation to help combat freight fraud. According to a recent CargoNet report, cargo theft reached “unprecedented levels” in 2024, with nearly $455 million in stolen freight, marking a 27% increase from 2023. The six largest U.S. freight railroads alone lost over $100 million from stolen goods and railcar damages, reflecting a 40% rise from the previous year.

Organized crime is impacting the entire supply chain, from trucking fraud to broker scams. In response, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Freight, Pipelines, and Safety, held a hearing titled “Grand Theft Cargo: Examining the Costly Threat to Consumers and the U.S. Supply Chain.” The hearing emphasized the enforcement challenges, noting that these crimes are often perceived as low-risk and high-reward. Furthermore, they are frequently considered “mobile crimes” with no clear jurisdiction, making enforcement difficult.

In particular, Adam Blanchard, Principal and CEO of Tanger Logistics and Double Diamond Transport, highlighted the difficulties of combating strategic fraud within the complex network of federal and state agencies. As both a trucking company and a logistics provider (TIA Member), Adam shared his company’s experience with corporate identity theft and their often unsuccessful attempts to engage the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). His testimony underscores the urgent need for Congress to take action and enhance enforcement through bills like H.R. 880 and S. 337 (The Household Goods and Shipping Consumer Protection Act).

Act today! Tell your members of congress to co-sponsor this legislation and give them your stories of cargo theft and strategic fraud. It only takes a few minutes to add your voice to this fight!