As cargo theft becomes more sophisticated and digitally enabled, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc. (NMFTA)™ has released a new resource to help the industry fight back: Cybersecurity Cargo Crime Reduction Framework.
Designed specifically for carriers, shippers, and third-party logistics providers (3PLs), this actionable guide outlines steps that freight stakeholders can take to reduce the risk of theft—both physical and digital—before it disrupts operations.
“Cargo theft is no longer confined to stolen trailers or broken seals,” said Joe Ohr, chief operating officer for NMFTA. “Criminals are increasingly using cyber tactics to impersonate drivers, falsify load documents, exploit digital load boards, and reroute shipments. These tech-driven schemes are harder to detect—and far more costly.”
The framework translates best practices and real‑world countermeasures into a clear, practical blueprint:
- Recognize red flags like fake carrier profiles or spoofed dispatch communications.
- Implement layered defenses across telematics, authentication, and personnel training.
- Collaborate with trusted partners to track threats and report incidents.
“As freight systems become more digital, cybersecurity and cargo security are now one and the same,” said Artie Crawford, director of cybersecurity for NMFTA. “This framework is built on real-world scenarios and provides practical controls to help reduce cargo crime—before it costs you time, money, or customer trust.”
The framework is free to download and is part of NMFTA’s broader commitment to enhancing the freight transportation industry’s cyber readiness and resilience.
To access the framework, click here.
To learn more about NMFTA’s complimentary cybersecurity resources, such as research, webinars, and reports, visit www.nmfta.org/cybersecurity.
Industry experts should mark their calendars for NMFTA’s Cybersecurity Conference set for October 26-28, 2025, in Austin, TX. This is the trucking industry’s only cybersecurity event. Learn more at www.nmftacyber.com.
About NMFTA
Since 1956, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA)™ has represented the interests of the less-than-truckload (LTL) motor carrier industry. The NMFTA publishes the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC®), manages its digital counterpart, ClassIT®, assigns Standard Carrier Alpha Code® (SCAC®) and Standard Point Location Code (SPLC®), develops digital standards for the LTL industry, and safeguards those digital standards through cybersecurity research, dissemination of studies, and education. Membership in NMFTA is available to all for-hire interstate and intrastate motor carriers. For more information, visit www.nmfta.org.
Contact
Marli Hall
Director of Communications and Marketing
marli.hall@nmfta.org
703-665-3559
