CLECAT Guide on preventing Identity-Based Cargo Theft
Brussels, 15 June 2026 – CLECAT has published a new Guide on Preventing Identity-Based Cargo Theft, providing freight forwarders and logistics service providers with practical recommendations to strengthen risk management procedures and address one of the fastest-growing threats facing supply chains today.
Cargo theft remains a significant and evolving risk for the European logistics sector. While traditional cargo theft involving physical force continues to account for the majority of reported incidents, an increasing share of the overall financial damage is linked to deception-based schemes. Organised criminal groups are increasingly exploiting procedural weaknesses, digital communication channels and operational time pressures to gain control of valuable shipments without resorting to force.
Identity-based cargo theft typically involves the use of stolen company identities, phantom carriers, forged documentation, fraudulent email domains and other forms of digital impersonation. The growing use of digital freight platforms and online communication tools, combined with increasingly sophisticated technologies, has further increased opportunities for criminals to infiltrate supply chains and target logistics operations.
To support companies in addressing these risks, the CLECAT guide provides a structured framework for strengthening due diligence and verification procedures throughout the transport chain. The guidance covers carrier onboarding and verification, secure communication practices, financial safeguards, loading-site controls, driver and vehicle identification procedures and incident response measures. It also highlights common warning indicators, emerging criminal modus operandi and practical examples of fraud cases reported across Europe.
Commenting on the publication, CLECAT Director General Nicolette van der Jagt said: "While physical cargo theft remains a major concern, we are seeing organised criminal groups increasingly exploit trust, digitalisation and procedural weaknesses to obtain cargo through deception. Identity-based fraud is becoming more sophisticated and can result in significant financial losses and operational disruption. As supply chains become increasingly digital and interconnected, robust verification procedures and due diligence are essential. This guide provides practical support to help freight forwarders and logistics service providers strengthen their resilience against these evolving threats."
The guide also highlights the importance of cooperation across the supply chain. Freight forwarders, carriers, shippers, insurers, digital freight platforms and public authorities all have a role to play in preventing cargo crime and improving the exchange of information on emerging threats and suspicious activities. By bringing together industry experience, practical recommendations and examples of current criminal methods, the guide aims to support companies in strengthening supply chain security and reducing the risk of becoming victims of identity-based cargo theft.
The full guide is available below.