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Nieuwsblad Transport reported this week on a worrying increase in so-called “ghost carrier” or “fake haulier” fraud cases in Germany. According to figures from the German Insurance Association (GDV), criminals posing as legitimate transport companies have defrauded shippers and insurers of €17.6 million in the first seven months of 2025 alone — almost as much as in the whole of 2024.

CLECAT has received similar feedback from members and industry partners across Europe, confirming an exponential rise in such incidents, which is extremely concerning for the integrity and reputation of the logistics sector.

The fraudulent schemes typically exploit digital freight platforms where shippers or forwarders post transport requests. Using forged email addresses, fake identities, and counterfeit documents, criminals present themselves as subcontracted carriers authorised to collect valuable goods from distribution centres. Once the shipment is handed over — often under time pressure or without proper verification — the perpetrators disappear without a trace.

According to GDV, 88 incidents were recorded between January and July 2025, with an average loss of €200,000 per case, primarily involving electronics and consumer goods.

Insurers are urging shippers and logistics service providers to strengthen verification procedures when using digital freight platforms. This includes cross-checking carrier credentials, verifying contact details, and ensuring clear insurance and liability coverage before collection.

For CLECAT, these developments underline the urgent need to strengthen trust mechanisms and transparency in logistics to enhance authentication and traceability in the logistics sector and closer public–private cooperation to enhance.