In total, CargoNet estimates the value for supply chain losses in Q2 exceeded $128 million.(Credit: Kalyakan/Adobe Stock)
There were a record 884 supply chain thefts across the United States and Canada in the second quarter of 2025, Verisk CargoNet reports. This shows an increase of 13% from Q2 2024 and of 10% from the first quarter of 2025.
In total, CargoNet estimates the value of these losses exceeded $128 million. Supply chain theft activity also grew as Q2 2025 progressed; increasing by 14.6% in April, 4.4% in May and then surging 21.9% in June.
Metals theft saw the most dramatic increase in thefts as they nearly doubled year-over-year to 53 incidents. This increase coincides with copper trading reaching record highs, which CargoNet says suggests that the organized crime groups that target cargo are strategically adjusting their targets based on the market value of commodities.
There was also an increase of 68% in food and beverage product thefts from Q2 2024 to Q2 2025. These thefts now make up about one-fifth of total cargo theft events with the primary targets being alcoholic beverages, energy drinks and meat products.
The average stolen shipment value in Q2 2025 was $203,586, which CargoNet notes represents a significant impact on the supply chain. These losses ripple outward and lead to things like increased insurance costs, delivery delays and higher financial burdens on consumers.
"The strategic targeting of specific commodities reveals the business-like approach of modern cargo theft operations," Keith Lewis, vice president of operations for Verisk CargoNet, said in a release. "These aren't opportunistic crimes – they're calculated operations targeting goods with the highest illicit-market value and easiest resale potential."
CargoNet’s analysts warn that organized groups are also utilizing document fraud and identity theft in their cargo theft schemes, and these plots are evolving to circumvent anti-fraud efforts.
"Traditional physical security measures alone are no longer sufficient," noted Lewis. "The industry must adopt a multi-layered approach combining physical security, digital verification, and real-time intelligence sharing to combat these evolving threats."
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