Ensuring the security of freight is of critical importance and an operational prerequisite for businesses across the globe in the process of global trade.
The consequences of not sufficiently protecting the cargo can be devastating, ranging from financial loss, damaged reputation to long-term, intricate legal disputes.
As per BSI-TT Club’s Cargo Theft Report 2022, 65% of cargo stolen in 2022 was related to trucking activities including hijacking, theft from container/trailer and vehicle theft, followed by 30% from storage facilities and 5% from other areas.
There are several essential strategies you can follow to safeguard your goods. Internet of Things (IoT) devices that offer improved security with a focus on the track and trace system is one such strategy.
Traditional cargo security methods have been heavily reliant on human interaction, paper documentation and manual methods, making the process inefficient and also prone to errors.
IoT devices have helped the cargo security landscape to evolve rapidly allowing customers the benefits of real-time tracking and monitoring of freight while on the move.
With GPS, RFID tags, and similar IoT devices, you can now have eyes on your cargo at all times. The real-time data generated by these devices help businesses to act proactively in case of any irregularities.
IoT devices equipped with tamper-detection sensors provide customers with real-time alerts about any unauthorized events such as door openings which combined with real-time tracking, offers a powerful tool for securing valuable freight.
These devices also detect and alert any momentary changes in pressure and movement including detecting container lifts while being loaded or off-loaded at unauthorized locations.
These help in identifying container theft from trucks and trailers
In addition, these devices also provide alerts about light intrusion, changes in humidity, shocks, temperature deviations, and other vital information relating to cargo movement and security.
These proactive alerts allow companies to take corrective measures instantly and prevent potential losses.
While real-time tracking offers numerous benefits, the capabilities of IoT go far beyond simple monitoring.
By analyzing historical data patterns, businesses can predict potential risks or challenges that might affect their cargo's safety. These predictive analytics can be particularly useful in avoiding areas with high crime rates, planning alternative routes during severe weather conditions, and forecasting possible equipment failures.
Geo-fencing is another advanced application of IoT in cargo security. It enables businesses to set a virtual geographical boundary around their cargo's expected route. If the cargo deviates from this predetermined route (indicating potential theft or misrouting), an alert is triggered, allowing businesses to take immediate action.
Maintaining cargo security is paramount across all modes of transport. Leveraging IoT technology for track and trace purposes allows not only enhanced visibility over your cargo but also enables businesses to become more proactive in risk management.
IoT-based security strategies such as real-time tracking, predictive analytics, geo-fencing, and container security are no longer just ‘nice-to-haves’, they have become essential tools in the toolbox of any business concerned with the safety and security of their cargo.
The effective integration of IoT in cargo security procedures requires a careful understanding of both the technology and the specific security needs of your business.
Therefore, it is crucial to partner with experts who can guide you through the process and help design a comprehensive and tailored cargo security strategy that fits your business model.
Ensuring the safety of your cargo is not just about preventing loss; it's about guaranteeing the smooth operation of your business, maintaining your reputation, and ultimately, keeping your promise to your customers. Secure cargo means secure business, and with IoT, achieving that security is more feasible than ever before.
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