Reclaim Your Profits: The Ultimate Solution for Recovering Unpaid Freights in the Transport Industry

Reclaim Your Profits: The Ultimate Solution for Recovering Unpaid Freights in the Transport Industry

by | Aug 4, 2023 | Articles

CLAIM DEPOT

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he last economic cycle led global trade to a significant increase causing the transport industry to experience unprecedented demand, propelling businesses to new heights. However, as the market stabilizes, transport companies now face a pressing challenge – the prevalence of unpaid freights. These unpaid invoices are stifling cash flow and hindering the growth of transport businesses. Fortunately, unpaid freights are a familiar for Clams Trans and in this article, we share some key principles to follow in order to swiftly recover your dues and keep your business on the fast track to success.

The Problem Unraveled🚚

As the transport market adjusts to decreasing global trade, unpaid freights have become a persistent headache for transport companies. These unresolved invoices disrupt cash flow, impede operations, and strain relationships with suppliers and employees. These challenges proved to be unsurmountable even for the big players, visible through Yellow [1] and Surge Transportation [2] ‘s recent bankruptcy filings. With decreasing demand and freight rates dropping [3], every transport company should possess a robust strategy can turn the tables in their favor.

The Manifestation of the Problem✒️

Unpaid freights manifest in various ways, causing significant hurdles for transport companies. Late payments create cash flow bottlenecks, making it challenging to meet expenses and invest in growth. This cycle often leads transport companies to delay their own invoice payments, further exacerbating the issue. The time for a proactive and decisive approach is now.

Experience and Expertise

At Claims Trans, we have walked the path with numerous transport companies, facing and overcoming the problem of unpaid freights. Our expertise extends to handling multiple cargo claims involving freight withholding and unlawful deductions in damage claims. We understand the intricacies of your industry, and this invaluable experience empowers us to deliver results like no other.

The Path to Success🧩

Wondering what sets apart the most successful transport companies when it comes to recovering unpaid freights? Here’s the secret formula that guarantees results:

1. Thoroughly Assess Financial Status: Our cutting-edge tools delve deep into public and private databases to assess the financial standing of potential clients. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll make informed decisions, minimizing risks of non-payment.

2. Issue an Official Voluntary Payment Invitation: Our expertly crafted and polite payment invitations, complete with interest accumulation, leave no room for misunderstanding. Your clients will understand the implications of non-payment without any friction.

3. Engage Legal Experts: Should the need arise, our legal team, well-versed in debt recovery and transport industry intricacies, steps in to navigate any complexities swiftly and efficiently. Regardless of the debtor’s country of origin, our multitude of successful lawsuits in numerous European states allows us to provide legal protection internationally.

4. Consistency is Key: With Claims Trans by your side, you’ll stay consistent in your efforts until the invoice is paid in full. We’ll maintain open lines of communication and handle necessary documentation promptly, reinforcing your commitment to getting what’s rightfully yours.

5. Explore Barter Arrangements: In situations where cash flow is a concern for the client, explore the possibility of accepting cheaper loads or goods in exchange for the outstanding amount. This arrangement can be mutually beneficial and maintain a positive business relationship.

6. Installment Plans: For clients facing financial challenges, offering installment plans can ease the burden of a lump-sum payment. Structuring a reasonable and structured installment plan demonstrates goodwill and the willingness to support your clients during challenging times.

The Conclusion🚀

Unpaid freights no longer have to be a stumbling block for your transport business. With our unparalleled expertise and successful track record, Claims Trans ensures your cash flow stays robust and your business thrives. We understand the challenges you face, having dealt with multiple cargo claims involving freight withholding and unlawful deductions. Let us be your strategic partner in the pursuit of recovering unpaid freights, so you can focus on what you do best – driving your business towards unparalleled success. Take the first step now and contact Claims Trans today to put your business back on the fast track to prosperity.

Begin solving your problem today 🚀
Bibliography:
[1] Reuters. (2023, July 31). Teamsters says U.S. trucking firm Yellow shuts operations, to file for bankruptcy. CNBC. https://www.cnbc.com/2023/07/31/teamsters-says-us-trucking-firm-yellow-shuts-operations-to-file-for-bankruptcy.html
[2] Hawes, C. (2023, July 26). Surge Transportation blames bankruptcy filing on sales drop after e-commerce boom. FreightWaves. https://www.freightwaves.com/news/bankrupt-surge-transportation-unprepared-for-sales-drop-after-e-commerce-boom
[3] The European Road Freight Rate Benchmark Q1 2023. (2023) https://go.upply.com/en-gb/ti-upply-iru-european-road-freight-rates-benchmark-report-q1-2023

Social Dumping: Protection, Prevention, and Best Practice for Carriers

Social Dumping: Protection, Prevention, and Best Practice for Carriers

by | Feb 21, 2023 | Articles

CLAIM DEPOT

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he European Single Market provides carriers with various opportunities to grow and advance their business internationally. However, the access to this is contingent upon complying with sometimes strict guidelines and regulations. The latest version of the Mobility Package[1] from 2021 is the most recent iteration of such a formal guideline stemming from the European Union.

The most “popular” topic stemming from the Mobility Package are the mandatory rest times or the cabbotage rules. Indeed, the fines can be costly and it is often troublesome to navigate the abundance of rules and method of administration in each country. Luckily, there are methods to counteract the risks presented by fines during regular transports which many transport companies already benefit from[2].

Social Dumping📉

However, the much less known element of the Mobility Package – the anti-social dumping regulations often get underestimated in terms of its regulatory scope and its impact on transport companies operating in the European Single Market. The EU has a longstanding issue with what is known as “social dumping”.[3] This term refers to the practice of companies hiring workers from other countries within the EU in order to cut costs and gain a competitive advantage. Many transport companies employ this strategy not only for its financial benefits, but for the organizational ease of completing recurrent transports for regular clients.

The Posted Workers Directive✒️

The EU responded to this increasing trend through the Posted Workers Directive (2020) in an effort to provide more labor protection and equalize the competitive advantage for companies regardless of their country of registration. The directive extends the requirement for equal pay and working conditions to all workers, regardless of whether they are posted or not. It would also introduce stricter enforcement mechanisms and penalties for companies that violate the rules.[4]

The proposed mobility package has sparked controversy, with some arguing that it goes too far and could harm the free movement of workers within the EU. In particular, companies from the logistics industry have signaled that the new regulations have prompted hostile behavior by the host country’s administrative bodies in attempts to enforce the new rules.

The main issues for transport companies arise due to the Directive’s use of national collective bargain agreements as a benchmark for remuneration along with national social security rules. As such, the necessary compliance with these standards creates a significiant administrative burden on transport companies and puts companies at financial risk.

Solutions and Best Practice🧩

In all European countries, posted workers regulations are enforced by labor inspectors who have the power to investigate complaints and impose penalties on employers who violate these regulations. Employers who are found to be in violation of posted workers regulations may be required to pay back wages to the affected workers, and may also face fines or other penalties.

“Typical” destinations for posted drivers such as Belgium and the Netherlands require employers to register them with the national authorities and present workers with their written rights and obligations apart from providing the workers with the same working conditions and remuneration levels as the local workers. These are also the countries who have a prominent level of enforcement as certain legal battles have progressed to the highest levels of judicial remedy in the respective national Supreme Courts.[5] In doing so, the rules and details for posting workers have been further defined and clarified through jurisprudence which transport companies can use in order to ensure compliance and prevent costs.

The different jurisdictions within the EU of course have various methods of administering this information through digital forms, written declarations and regulatory oversight with some countries like the Netherlands enjoying a fully digital and comprehensive portal for all of this administration.[6] However, every transport company can benefit from the following universal guidelines for compliance in order to protect themselves and prevent costly fines:

1. Check whether your company is actually “posting” workers

Different countries have a multitude of requirements which qualify workers as posted in a host country. These usually include the administrative information of the company itself, its main source of income, and most importantly, the structure of the labor contracts and labor descriptions offerred by the carrier. It is of paramount importance to check this as the conclusion of this check would change the requirements for the company itself with regard to its drivers.

2.Research the national collective bargaining agreement for transport workers

Each country possesses guidelines and regulations for the working conditions and remunerations for workers in the transport industry with differring degrees of detail and scope. If your company is posting workers according to the abovementioned, it would be necessary to comply and match the guidelines from these agreements.

3.Provide information to the national authorities of the host-country

Before employing the labor of posted workers, it is important to communicate the structure of the labor in advance to the national authority, usually the Ministry of Labor/Social Security, through written communication or digital declaration.

The Conclusion🚀

As a general rule, to prevent violations and fines arising from non-compliance, it is crucial to maintain proper documentation and records. This includes keeping detailed records of posted workers’ contracts, pay, and working conditions. It is also important to regularly communicate with the host country to ensure compliance with the posted workers directive. By taking these steps, transport companies can prevent violations and protect the rights of their workers while still maintaining their comparative advantage in the increasingly competitive transport industry.

At Claims Trans, we have already contributed towards efforts for compliance and dispute settlement arising out of accusations brought in front of Bulgarian transport companies operating in the European Single Market. If you’d like to save time and resources dedicated to compliance, as well as to protect your company from costly fines, do not hesitate to contact us so that we can support you in navigating these regulations so that you can allow more time for the growth of your business.

Check out other helpful prevention tips and solved cargo cases from CLAIMS TRANS🚀
Bibliography:
[1] European Union Mobility Package I, Mobility and Transport. Available at: https://transport.ec.europa.eu/transport-modes/road/mobility-package-i_en (Accessed: February 4, 2023).
[2] International Road Union. Driving and rest time rules –  the EU’s mobility package, IRU. Available at: https://www.irumobilitypackages.org/driving-and-rest-time-rules (Accessed: February 4, 2023).
[3] European parliament. Understanding social dumping in the European Union (no date) Think Tank | European Parliament. Available at: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/thinktank/en/document/EPRS_BRI(2017)599353 (Accessed: February 4, 2023).
[4] Questions and answers on posting of Drivers Under Directive (EU) 2020/1057 Mobility and Transport. Available at: https://transport.ec.europa.eu/transport-modes/road/mobility-package-i/posting-rules/questions-and-answers-posting-drivers-under-directive-eu-20201057_en (Accessed: February 4, 2023).
[5] Emma van Kaemegem (2023) Are foreign employers who post workers to Belgium obliged to proceed with a Dimona obligation: What has the Belgian Supreme Court said (or rather not said)?, Altius. Available at: https://www.altius.com/en/news/are-foreign-employers-who-post-workers-to-belgium-obliged-to-proceed-with-a-dimona-obligation-what-has-the-belgian-supreme-court-said-or-rather-not-said/ (Accessed: February 4, 2023).
[6] Ministerie van Sociale Zaken en Werkgelegenheid (2022) Notifying online, Posted Workers. Ministerie van Sociale Zaken en Werkgelegenheid. Available at: https://english.postedworkers.nl/online-notification-portal (Accessed: February 4, 2023).

Does transport mediation deliver solutions tailored to the dynamics of the logistics industry?

Does transport mediation deliver solutions tailored to the dynamics of the logistics industry?

by | Jan 25, 2023 | Articles

transport mediation

The dynamics of the logistics industry create serious challenges for carriers, freight forwarders and customers. Problematic situations arise on a daily basis. Losing control of a problem while it is still in its infancy makes solving it much more difficult.

How can logistics companies can benefit from mediation?

The logistics industry needs a mechanism to match its dynamics, namely an adaptable, dynamic, flexible and fast model through which disputes can be resolved efficiently. The mediation procedure is the means that would perfectly incorporate into the transport industry to help it continue to develop at a rapid pace.

Mediation is an alternative means of resolving disputes. It is precisely an alternative because it is an option that the parties have and the choice of which depends solely on their will. By agreeing to a mediation procedure with the assistance of a mediator, the parties aim to reach a mutually beneficial solution and agreement between them. Of course, the parties to a pending dispute may also proceed to mediation at any time and reach an agreement only with the mediator’s proper communication guidelines.

The mediation procedure is distinguished by certain principles which most clearly describe its nature, namely: voluntariness, equality, neutrality, impartiality and confidentiality. In view of these basic principles, the disputants have equal opportunities in the mediation procedure. They participate of their own free will and may withdraw at any time. It is also extremely important that the mediator does not show partiality and does not impose a solution on the dispute. In the mediation procedure, all issues are settled only by mutual agreement of the parties.

In order to gain a better insight into the nature of mediation, we should distinguish mediation from court and arbitration proceedings. While in the latter two proceedings the decision is made by a judge or arbitrator on the basis of the applicable law, in mediation the parties themselves resolve the dispute with the help of the mediator on the basis of their personal needs or business interests. Another important difference should not be overlooked, namely that court and arbitration proceedings follow a strictly formal procedure laid down in law or rules, whereas in mediation there is an informal and flexible procedure which is modelled and individualised according to the needs of the parties and the type of dispute respectively.

The advantages offered by the mediation procedure are significant in number and can be structured as follows:

1.Speed of outcome – this is one of the main advantages of mediation compared to court proceedings in particular. The parties can usually reach a mutually beneficial solution within 1-2 sessions, which would not take more than a month. Conversely, if the dispute is taken to court, it can take a considerable period of time to consider and resolve.

2.Lower financial cost – resolving the dispute in mediation would cost much less financially than court proceedings;

3.Convenience – no formal procedures;

4.Control – the parties have overall control over the development of the procedure;

5.High success rate and getting to the heart of the problem;

6.Preservation of alternative options – referring the dispute to a mediator does not deprive the parties of the possibility, if they fail to reach an agreement, to seek protection of their rights and interests in court or in arbitration;

7.Preservation of relations – resolving the dispute in mediation allows the parties to preserve good relations and continue their cooperation;

Most likely, after clarifying the nature of mediation, the question arises: How can mediation work in transport? The answer is clear – mediation is widely applicable in the transport sector as it would help to resolve the conflicts that inevitably arise on a daily basis. In view of the dynamics of the transport industry, mediation is the means by which disputes arising can be resolved in a quick, efficient and above all cost-effective manner.

Furthermore, business relations in transport are very important and as such should be preserved for the future. A mediator would help the two disputing parties to confront the problem, generate as many solutions as possible in the interests of the parties, find the balance in the demands of both parties so that they can reach a mutually beneficial solution and continue to cooperate with each other, rather than worsen their relationship as happens most often in litigation.

And what is the value for companies? Mediation gives a lot – companies reach quick and efficient solutions in line with their direct business interests – a very important circumstance in view of the dynamics in the transport industry. Mediation saves a lot of costs – a definite plus in view of the difficult economic situation we are in. Last but not least, mediation helps the parties to maintain good relations with each other and to continue working together – this fact also has a positive impact on the economic situation of the companies.

Mediation is best suited to the dynamics of the logistics industry. The latter requires quick, effective and forward-looking solutions, and mediation is able to help the parties themselves reach precisely such solutions.

Check out other helpful prevention tips and solved cases from CLAIMS TRANS🚀
What are the dangers and prevention opportunities for carriers when carrying cargo to the UK?

What are the dangers and prevention opportunities for carriers when carrying cargo to the UK?

by | Jan 9, 2023 | Articles

ship-claims-trans

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very month there are thousands of attempts by illegal immigrants to gain unauthorized access to vehicles en route to UK. Keeping your vehicle and trailer secure against stowaways can be a challenge. If the UK Border Force or Customs discovers immigrants in one of your vehicles, you may face a heavy fine up to up to £2,000 per illegal entry. Furthermore, your cargo is valuable. If clandestine entrants enter your vehicle, they may cause damage to the cargo, and its recipient may reject it. This can cause more complications, prolonged discussions and it may jeopardize successful business relations.

There are important pillars that every transport company should focus on when performing transport courses in and outside United Kingdom. Not only the overall safety of the driver and the freight can be increased, but carriers also have to act in compliance with all guidelines and requirements, the following key points should be considered:

Check out other helpful prevention tips and solved cargo cases from CLAIMS TRANS🚀

1.Secure loading and unloading🧳

Those in control of loading / unloading operations, should check the vehicle prior departure. When possible, drivers should aim to park at secure facilities and always check for cuts or tears in the outer shell or fabric of the vehicle.

2.Vehicle security checklists and written instructions for the drivers 🗐

All drivers should have, and consistently use vehicle security checklists. Ideally the operators should fill their check list three times a day from the day of the loading. You can print an appropriate security checklist directly from the government site

📑LINK TO FREE SAMPLE CHECKLIST 📑

3.Provide additional training to drivers🏫

 All drivers should have an adequate training that covers processes, including what to do if they find any clandestine entrants on board. Their training should cover truck security, vulnerable spots on their vehicle and how to use the checklist correctly.

4.Provision of the right equipment🔧

Security devices, such as padlocks, seals and tilt cord, should be used to secure a vehicle as soon as it is loaded. This prevents stowaways from climbing on board once a loaded truck is left unattended. Security equipment should be checked at regular intervals.

5.Regular Checks✔️

Drivers should check their vehicle at the end of every stop and before they cross a border. If a driver suspects someone is attempting to enter their vehicle or has entered their vehicle, they should contact local police as soon as it is safe to do so. Drivers should not attempt to approach the stowaway themselves.

6.Accreditation scheme📝

Companies can join an accreditation scheme to help reduce penalties. To qualify they must have an effective security system for their vehicles and be in complete compliance with all requirements.

The Civil Penalty Code of Practice is an important document for all hauliers and truck drivers to read. You can download it from here:

ENGLISH

BULGARIAN

Check out other helpful prevention tips and solved cargo cases from CLAIMS TRANS🚀

How can you defend against a civil penalty? 🛡️

If clandestine entrants are found in your vehicle after arriving in the UK, you and your company may receive a Notice of Liability to a Penalty IS11 Letter form Border Force. At this stage, no decision has been made regarding the imposition of any penalty. You now have 28 days from the date of the letter to respond and present your justifications and prove that you did not know or did not have reasonable grounds to suspect that a clandestine entrant was hidden in the vehicle and that you had secure systems in place which were properly operated at the time of the breach.

If you don’t manage to convince Border Force and find yourself in this unfortunate position, you will receive a second letter Notice of Penalty and an IS11 Form. This will tell you how much you are being fined and will invite you to file a Notice of Objection to Border force.

If after filing the Notice of Objection, the Border Force’s decision is still unfair, your only option is to appeal this to the County Court. You should make an appeal on Form N161 and pay court fee when sending your appeal. Judge will review your case and will make a decision whether the fine was properly imposed on you. The judge can diminish the fine or even abolish it completely, hence it is crucial to guarantee that your case is properly presented.

It is a difficult and expensive problem to resolve that’s why having a reliable and trustful guidance determines the course of events. Our company Claims Trans have advanced experience in the communication with key institutions and leads the process with agility, diligence and resilience. We know how to navigate the situation through whatever obstacle comes your way due to various cases we have represented. Our goal is to give you not only a quality and effective service but peace and vindication of right.

🚛 💨 CLAIMS TRANS - Augmented claims handling with a click! 🚛 💨

E-CMR is gaining momentum with its benefits in Germany – See how!

E-CMR is gaining momentum with its benefits in Germany – See how!

by | Sep 30, 2022 | Articles

The context🚛

 

W

e currently find ourselves in a key moment for the logistics industry. Every stakeholder within the global supply chine is searching for innovative solutions that would contribute towards their efficiency in order to become more competitive in this dynamic market. In addition, the governments of European states are carefully observing how companies’ needs are changing while the markets are developing in order to provide appropriate legislative solutions in order to support domestic firms. The last instance which portrays this tendency of a state contributing towards a positive change within the transport sector is Germany, who, as of the 5th of April, adopts the digital waybill – E-CMR, becoming the 31st government which has implemented the E-CMR Protocol of the CMR Convention.[1]

The Causes  🗺️

“The benefits of the digital waybill are obvious. It will contribute towards a faster and more efficient supply chain, all the whilst making life easier not only for logistics companies, but for every individual client.” confirms Andreas Schauer – Germany’s minister of transport and digital infrastructure after having adopted the E-CMR Protocol.[2] In reality, digital waybills offer additional comfort for all stakeholders in two fundamental areas – decreased expenses and clear-cut transparency during all important steps starting from the commissioning of a transport mission until its execution.

The administrative expenses related to the conventional paper waybill will drastically decrease. The removal of costs related to printing, informational updates and physical data storage will lead to a significant decrease in costs for logitistics firms given the volume of documentation that paper-waybills create. On the other hand, it is crucial to acknowledge the time that different companies along the supply chain must currently dedicate in order to enter, update and transfer information on paper. This obligation costs valuable time which can be instead invested for commercial progress given the dynamic transport and logistics market.

The ability to track and update information in real time provides more visibility and transparency for everyone along the supply chain. As such, every stakeholder can remain calm because they will benefit from a fast and easy access to all necessary information during the transport mission. Moreover, when an action related to a claim or an invoice is necessary, firms can enjoy the advantage of being able to act switfly and appropriately according to the circumstances. This will improve the effectiveness of every party’s work while at the same time decreasing the risk of delayed payments and mistimed communication.

Therefore, the digital waybill is becoming an invaluable tool for senders, carriers and freight forwarders as it allows them to enjoy a more effective workflow, smaller costs, and more available time for expanding and optimizing their business – three objectives which Claims Trans focused on during our previous analysis of the topic.

Why is it important that precisely Germany has adopted the E-CMR Protocol?

According to major transport organizations and unions, Germany’s absence from the E-CMR Protocol, which regulates the implementation of digital waybills, is the main cause which has prevented a more significant development of digital waybills towards more widespread use in Europe.[3] On the one hand, Germany’s strong export economy implies that a significant portion of European carriers and forwarders have long-standing partnerships with German companies who export their products within the European internal market and abroad. On the other hand, Germany is a transit state for almost half of the land freight in Europe.[4] This positions Germany and its domestic firms as key stakeholders for many of the transport missions completed in the European market.

By actively engaging with the digital revolution, which the E-CMR promotes, Germany showcases its clear intentions to support domestic firms by creating an efficient and calm commercial environment as far as the optimization of the supply chain, regardless of its size, is concerned. This development provides valuable insights for European transport companies who either have German clients and carriers as partners, or who frequently use Germany as a transit country during their transport missions. Therefore, a timely and prompt reaction to this change by the other European firms in the logistics industry will not only ensure them a more efficient and calm workflow – but it will also fortify and improve their commercial relationships with clients and partners.

🚛 💨 CLAIMS TRANS - Augmented claims handling with a click! 🚛 💨

A Look into the Future 👀

At Claims Trans, we believe that the latest digital innovations in the industry indicate that the logistics industry indeed finds itself in a key stage of its development. The needs for more effective work through suitable automatization and digital solutions are becoming more visible and the transport companies are showing an increasing willingness to explore the different methods of becoming more competitive. This development is evident on a European-wide level as, in a decision from November 2019, the European Parliament certifies its desire for digital waybills to progress towards mass use in the European Union, expecting that the E-CMR would be mandatory by the year 2026.[5] In fact, digital waybills are becoming the tool which can allow the transport sector to experience the necessary innovations which will improve the processes for all stakeholders along the supply chain.

Therefore, it is important for all stakeholders to undertake appropriate strategic actions now, in order to ensure their adequate positioning in the future of this ongoing digital (r)evolution of the transport industry.

Bibliography:

[1] Latest Ratifications | UNECE. [2022], accessed 5 April 2022 at: <https://unece.org/latest-ratifications>

[2] Germany signs up to e-CMR digital consignment note protocol. [2021], accessed on the 5th of April 2022 at:

< https://www.automotivelogistics.media/policy-and-regulation/germany-signs-up-to-e-cmr-digital-consignment-note-protocol/42341.article

>

[3] Digital Transformation: ECMR – A digital future for the CMR document. [2021], accessed on the 5th of April 2022 at:

< https://vrioeurope.com/en/digital-transformation-ecmr-a-digital-future-for-the-cmr-document/#top

[4] Germany goes paperless with e-CMR [2022], accessed on the 5th of April 2022 at:

< https://www.iru.org/news-resources/newsroom/germany-goes-paperless-e-cmr >

[5] Impact Assessment for Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on electronic freight transport information. [2019], accessed on the 5th of April 2022 at:

< https://eur-lex.europa.eu/resource.html?uri=cellar:810e3b10-59bb-11e8-ab41-01aa75ed71a1.0001.02/DOC_1&format=PDF>

Is CARGO THEFT the most significant financial risk for road carriers?

Is CARGO THEFT the most significant financial risk for road carriers?

by | Jun 26, 2022 | Articles

Unfortunately, cargo theft is an increasingly common occurrence in the daily lives of carriers. Even just one such event could have significant negative consequences for transport companies. It is for these reasons that this article will focus on cases that are repeated many times in practice. We will also look at the useful preventive measures that can be taken to reduce the chance of these accidents.

According to statistics from various organizations (eg. TAPA EMEA), registered cases of theft and in particular, the total value of stolen goods amounts to billions of euros in just one year. The highest number of thefts have been registered in recent months in Western Europe: the United Kingdom, France, the Benelux and Germany.
Източник илюстрация: TAPA EMEA – report January 2019

Inseparable from any theft are the financial consequences for carriers. They may receive a claim for a missing item that exceeds the limit of liability set by the CMR Convention. In such situations, most companies rely on their own intuition and business acumen to solve the case. In this way, they tackle challenges that are extremely specific and contain many solutions. It is because of the importance of these situations that carriers need to have more control in order to achieve an optimal solution for all of their claims.

Here are the main types of theft of goods, according to the practice and the current trends in logistics:

  • Partial theft of the goods in front of a loading or an unloading address while waiting for loading / unloading, a ferry or during a night’s rest. It is most often the case that the carrier waits in line or for the unloading timeslot, and in many cases due to delays, the working hours of the receiving warehouse can expire. In such cases, it is sometimes too late to look for a parking space in the area, in which case, drivers most often decide to stay waiting in front of the address to unload in the morning. This is exactly what criminals are waiting for as they are concentrated in the logistics areas and are very well aware of the types of cargo that are loaded / unloaded near those places. The theft occurs at night, most often after gas intoxication of the driver who is sleeping in the cab, unable to react.
  • Theft during transit while the vehicle is parked at a gas station or a parking lot during a 45 minute break or at night. In these cases, criminals most often act by the method of “trial and error”, ie. they cut the tarpaulin of the cargo space, checking the goods that are being transported, and when they find an attractive product, they act. In case of theft, the carrier must call the police, obtain a report, as well as inform his insurer on “Carrier’s Liability (CMR);
  • Theft of the entire vehicle, together with the cargo. They are the result of an organized criminal scheme, in which criminals purposefully plan the “victim” and the place of the event, tracking it through a GPS device. Usually the goal is an attractive, expensive and fast-moving product. Criminals may act by force or weapon, or expect a convenient moment when the vehicle is left unattended. In the last few years, even in Bulgaria, there are a significant number of similar situations, such as cases in which the driver leaves an already loaded vehicle to pick up the documents for the goods, and then does not find the truck. Another example is the theft from a parking lot (paid or one, owned by the transport company), and the presence of lighting, fencing, video surveillance and security which are not an obstacle for criminals. In some cases, the vehicles themselves are subsequently found, naturally without goods in them.

After identifying the most common cases of theft, it is important to list the main recommendations for prevention and ways for carriers to avoid these situations:

 

  • Good advance planning of the carriage and the break spots, avoiding highway pockets, loading and unloading addresses or uninhabited places. You should choose the safest possible places, according to your experience and knowledge
  • Navigation only on the main planned route, without deviations
  • Use of electronic anti-theft security systems to be installed on the truck and trailer, and technical capability to locate the vehicle
  • Use of surveillance cameras in front of and around the truck and in the trailer
  • Use of special measures to lock the doors of the trailer
  • When transporting expensive goods (the driver should always be interested in what kind of goods he is transporting), ask for special instructions from your client and, if possible, perform the transport with a pair of drivers so that overnight stops can be minimized
  • Do not leave the vehicle unattended unless absolutely necessary
  • Always be vigilant and drivers should never share information about the goods, loading and unloading addresses

The arguments presented should serve as a guide for every transport company in dealing with thefts. It is impossible to summarize all possible options, but there are sustainable solutions that will improve the overall situation on a larger scale. These are the construction of more secure parking spaces, the availability of better security, as well as more efficient handling of cases. For their part, carriers must strive for higher levels of control over theft. In this way, they will be able to take active care for their business and will reduce losses in such incidents.