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TT Club

Cargo theft report reveals rapidly shifting criminal tactics and emerging targets

The BSI Consulting and TT Club 2024 Cargo Theft Report gives a detailed analysis of targeted commodities, prime locations for theft, regional hotspots and evolving strategies employed across the world. Detailed case studies are outlined and risk mitigation advice proffered.

London, 23April, 2025

Of incidents analysed:

  • Food and beverages were most frequently stolen — 22%
  • 76% involved trucks, including 21% hijackings and 20% theft of vehicles
  • Nearly half occurred when cargo was in transit
  • Theft from facilities was down from a quarter in 2023 to 18%
  • Hotspots included Brazil, Mexico, India, USA, Germany, Chile and South Africa
  • ‘Strategic’ theft was the standout growth trend
  • Internet-enabled crime also continues as a significant facilitator

While the Report’s statistical analysis of cargo theft types and top commodities stolen year on year (see graphic below) is revealing, it is the qualitative information and insight into the methods used by criminal that is most useful in combatting theft. 

As Tony Pelli, Global Practice Director for Security & Resilience at BSI Consulting, “The growth in strategic crime, defined as that utilizing deception, fraud, and advanced planning is the most remarkable finding in our Report. This weapon in the criminals’ ever-evolving armament now involves impersonation and document forgery as well as leveraging AI technologies to manipulate bills of lading and orchestrate remote operations. The degree of sophistication employed shows that organised crime’s knowledge of supply chain vulnerabilities is deepening.”

This strategic methodology was particularly noted in the US where 18% of all incidents were identified as a strategically planned thefts. Indeed, one of the Report’s detailed case studies itemises an organised crime’s campaign of theft from railcars in California and Arizona using such tactics.  Elsewhere case studies help cargo owners and transport operators put real-life flesh on the statistical bones; including metal theft in South Africa, pharmaceuticals targeted in India, violent hijackings in South America and theft from trucks on the move (so-called ‘rollover’ theft’) prevalent in Europe.

On behalf of TT, Mike Yarwood, Managing Director, Loss Prevention comments, “Our prime focus is to inform providing actionable insight to assist with risk mitigation. In this regard, it is vital to track current trends in criminal activity.  The burgeoning use of the internet, though  available for nefarious action for some years, is constantly spawning new technologies and  should not be overlooked. Techniques such as harnessing AI to create phishing emails, deep fakes, and malware aimed at accessing sensitive freight information and reports of attacks targeting cloud-based storage services are becoming more common.”

“If it is too good to be true, then it probably is” – is the essence of the sound advice offered by BSI Consulting and TT to those in the supply chain open to the risk of theft.  In a concluding section of the Report there is a comprehensive list of strategies to employ in risk mitigation, in particular to protect assets from theft.  These range from care over the security of email and other electronic communication to screening and vetting of third-party contractors; also from monitoring and response through reliable tracking services to keen awareness of alterations to regular delivery and pick-up locations.

“Above all,” emphasises Yarwood, “An overarching strategy to protect against cargo loss must be based on robust due diligence.  To know and trust as much as possible customers, carriers and contractors alike and to be cognisant of the criminals’ intent and level of cunning.”

SI Consulting and TT Club 2024 Cargo Theft Report is available for download free of charge BSI Consulting and TT Club 2024 Cargo Theft Report – TT Club

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. The Club’s services include specialist underwriting, claims management and risk and loss management advice, supported by a global office network. TT Club’s mission is to make the industry safer, more secure and more sustainable. 

Established in 1968, TT Club currently services more than 1400 Members – container owners, operators, ports, terminals and logistics companies. Its membership covers the entire logistics journey, working across maritime, road, rail, and air ranging from some of the world’s largest logistics operators to smaller, bespoke companies managing similar risks. The Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. Its average annual customer retention rate is consistently over 95%, with some Members having chosen to insure with the Club for over 50 years. 

TT Club is managed by Thomas Miller – an independent and international provider of insurance, professional and investment services. www.ttclub.com

About BSI Consulting

BSI Consulting enables clients’ sustainable growth by empowering their people and strengthening their physical and digital assets, upstream and downstream within the supply chain. Our diverse client base is wide-reaching, spanning across healthcare, pharma, manufacturing, government/public agencies, ICT, and more. A large percentage of our clients are Fortune 50 and Fortune 500 companies, showcasing our expertise in serving some of the world’s most influential organizations.

To learn more, please visit: www.bsigroup.com/consulting-us

About BSI Consulting Supply Chain Security Solutions

Our comprehensive supply chain resilience program integrates sustainability at every level, focusing on four key areas: strategy, assessment, monitoring, and response. By aligning strategic goals, addressing vulnerabilities, continuously monitoring risks, and enabling rapid, sustainable responses, consulting ensures a secure, resilient, and environmentally responsible supply chain that extends across all suppliers and operations.

To learn more, please visit www.bsigroup.com/en-US/products-and-services/consulting/supply-chain-security-risk/

TT Club : Supply chain fraud – the dangers of granting extended credit

In a competitive market where the promise of profitable new business is alluring international freight transport insurer TT Club is issuing a warning to freight forwarders and logistics operators to beware of fraudulent customers offering lucrative loads.

London, 14th April 2025

Fraudulent strategies can prove extremely profitable to the international criminal fraternity and the global supply chain is typically low risk due to the remote nature of the actual physical theft of goods.   TT Club has regularly highlighted the risks of theft through fraudulent documents, mandate fraud, fraudulent truckers, and trucking companies presenting themselves to collect cargo and more recently fraudulent freight forwarders or brokers.

Now the insurer is drawing attention to another type of fraud prevalent over the last twelve months; that of credit fraud. TT’s Logistics Risk Manager Josh Finch comments, “Credit fraud is an exposure to all in the global supply chain and a danger that ought to be considered through the risk management structure of every business. This is primarily a financial risk as operators are left with freight costs that can’t be collected. The losses as a result of such fraud can escalate quickly.”

The methodologies of criminals may vary but they all prey on the priority of all operators to maximise revenue in a highly competitive commercial environment. A brief example can help illustrate the dangers.  Finch explains, “A new customer approaches with a single shipment, typically to transport internationally, for instance from Bangladesh to Spain. The ocean shipment will be completed by road at source and destination.  There is a suggestion this could be the start of a potentially large and lucrative contract.   A rate is agreed and a 60-day credit facility arranged. On completion of the shipment the freight account is settled within the agreed 60 days.”  

What follows, from the operator’s point of view seems favourable, as four more consignments of clothing are booked on similar terms to the first. Then the ‘sting’ is put in place as these consignments become urgent and must be sent by air.  Several more air freight shipments occur regularly over a three-week period.  All successfully delivered. 

However after that, communications to the customer go unanswered; the 60-day credit period expires, and the freight account goes unsettled. The operator is left with significant carrier costs and no revenue.

TT urges operators to engage in extensive due diligence when advancing credit to new customers and points to advice from the British International Freight Association (BIFA).  Based on the unfortunate experiences of a number of its members, BIFA highlights some similar characteristics shared by this type of fraudulent ‘customers’ :

  • Customer wants only airfreight handled
  • No customs clearance or delivery at destination required
  • Completely new contacts, never previously engaged with operator
  • Large volumes of cargo involved
  • Customer accepts the quote without negotiation
  • No record of customer ever importing or exporting previously on the UK’s HMRC Traders website

Concluding Finch emphasises, “Undoubtedly the best course is to withhold extended credit such as 60 days until a trusting relationship has been established with a customer. If commercial necessities dictate offering a more immediate credit facility then careful due diligence is vital. It is wise to maintain that primary risk management revolves around knowledge of your customer at all levels including regulatory compliance, safety, and security.”

Full details of TT’s due diligence checklist is available on page 10 of the ‘Supply chain security bulletin’ HERE

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. The Club’s services include specialist underwriting, claims management and risk and loss management advice, supported by a global office network. TT Club’s mission is to make the industry safer, more secure and more sustainable. 

Established in 1968, TT Club currently services more than 1400 Members – container owners, operators, ports, terminals and logistics companies. Its membership covers the entire logistics journey, working across maritime, road, rail, and air ranging from some of the world’s largest logistics operators to smaller, bespoke companies managing similar risks. The Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. Its average annual customer retention rate is consistently over 95%, with some Members having chosen to insure with the Club for over 50 years. 

TT Club is managed by Thomas Miller – an independent and international provider of insurance, professional and investment services.

www.ttclub.com

TT Club : Security of the supply chain more critical than ever

Fast-moving changes in supply chains across the world are more complex and unexpected than ever says international freight and cargo handling insurer, TT Club. Its’s recent Bulletin focusses on drug smuggling and cargo theft in the US, along with initiatives to combat the risks, including smart containers and online animated guides to spotting fraudulent instructions to operators.

London, 25 March 2025

A kilo of cocaine is worth between USD 1,500 and USD 2,200 in producing countries such as Colombia. By the time it reaches consumer markets in Europe and North America, it can be worth between USD 30,000 and USD 80,000.  Such is the profit incentive for drug traffickers.

Sea-going containers are an attractive mode of transport for these illicit cargoes. Inspections at ports and increased resources aimed at detection make up part of the armoury in fighting the burgeoning crime of drug smuggling but technology in the form accurate tracking of containers and their contents is becoming more sophisticated. 

“Our latest Supply Chain Security Bulletin* delves into the data relating to this crime and also the methods evolving in an attempt to minimise the consequences,” says TT’s Mikle Yarwood. “The graphic below gives some sense of both the level of increase in the problem and the successful seizures in recent years.”

Top 10 countries by number of cocaine seizures and quantity seized (in kilogrammes), 2022–2023
Credit : World Customs Organization – Enforcement and Compliance: Illicit Trade Report 2023

Focussing on the USA’s cargo crime profile TT’s claims analysis revealed in the Bulletin shows a significant increase in the total number of reported thefts of all types of cargo, up by over 60% in 2024 over two years prior.  Thefts of full loads from cargo handling facilities or depots made up nearly half of these last year as opposed to 29% in 2023. A change in regional trends across the States are also examined and illustrated in the graphic below.

Top 4 states claims 2022–2024

“At TT we will continue to interrogate our own, and other sources to better understand the risks across the global supply chain, not just crime,” explained Yarwood.  “We are also dedicated to advising and assisting those involved in the container trades to prevent, or reduce these risks.  In our current Bulletin for instance we have developed a series of loss prevention animations, available online  with the aspiration of raising awareness of how thieves commonly access cargo.”

Access to the latest Bulletin, and the series as a whole is provided  HERE

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. The Club’s services include specialist underwriting, claims management and risk and loss management advice, supported by a global office network. TT Club’s mission is to make the industry safer, more secure and more sustainable. 

Established in 1968, TT Club currently services more than 1400 Members – container owners, operators, ports, terminals and logistics companies. Its membership covers the entire logistics journey, working across maritime, road, rail, and air ranging from some of the world’s largest logistics operators to smaller, bespoke companies managing similar risks. The Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. Its average annual customer retention rate is consistently over 95%, with some Members having chosen to insure with the Club for over 50 years. 

TT Club is managed by Thomas Miller – an independent and international provider of insurance, professional and investment services.

www.ttclub.com

TT Club highlights dangers of fire to mobile port equipment

Analysis of the international freight and cargo handling insurer’s claims history reveals that a fifth of all losses and damage to port equipment are related to fire.  There exists a real and significant risk to the safety of the workforce and terminal users that must be addressed.

London, 6th March 2025

TT Club is warning cargo handling and terminals operators that fire remains a major cause of damage and losses to port and terminal equipment.  The insurance specialist’s analysis of a ten-year claims history shows that of the near 1600 fire-related claims it has received over that period, some 19% have involved this equipment.  With some minor variation over the years, the percentage has remained relatively consistent.

“Fire risk not only poses a significant concern in terms of insured losses and obvious operational disruption, fire also presents a real and significant risk to the safety of the workforce, facility visitors/users and indeed the general public,” comments Neil Dalus from TT’s Loss Prevention department.  “As a result we strongly advise that fire detection and suppression systems in port equipment are considered by operators as critical safety measures.”

Total percentage of claims relating to equipment fires in a 10yr period

TT Club also commends the recently published white paper by the Port Equipment Manufacturing Association (PEMA]) entitled ‘Fire Detection and Suppression Systems for Mobile Port Equipment’ (Click here). The paper is comprehensive in its coverage of fire safety measures and particularly emphases importance of regular maintenance, collaborative risk assessments, adherence to industry standards, and of course mandatory regulations.

Among the essential information contained in the PEMA white paper are the range of available technologies for fire detection and suppression; current trends in electrification and automation together with their particular associated risks and environmental considerations when addressing the potential consequences of equipment fires.

Percentage of claims relating to equipment

In summary Dalus concludes, “”TT joins with PEMA in urging the installation of state-of-the-art fire suppression systems in all port equipment together with strict adherence to manufacturers’ service protocols and remote monitoring for autonomous equipment.  Going forward we advise the close collaboration between fire suppression system suppliers, equipment manufacturers and port operators in tackling the dangerous trend in the consistent risk of fire.”

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. The Club’s services include specialist underwriting, claims management and risk and loss management advice, supported by a global office network. TT Club’s mission is to make the industry safer, more secure and more sustainable. 

Established in 1968, TT Club currently services more than 1400 Members – container owners, operators, ports, terminals and logistics companies. Its membership covers the entire logistics journey, working across maritime, road, rail, and air ranging from some of the world’s largest logistics operators to smaller, bespoke companies managing similar risks. The Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. Its average annual customer retention rate is consistently over 95%, with some Members having chosen to insure with the Club for over 50 years. 

TT Club is managed by Thomas Miller – an independent and international provider of insurance, professional and investment services.

www.ttclub.com

Innovators in Cargo Handling Safety Honoured Once More

The TT Innovation in Safety Award has been expanded to recognize the depth and variety of projects and products which abound in the industry to meet the challenge of reducing accidents and damaging losses.  Four winners and four highly-commended entries were announced at last night’s presentation in London.

London, 27th February, 2025

Over the past ten years since its inception the ICHCA hosted TT Club Innovation in Safety Award has seen entries marked by a significantly increased diversity of innovative products, services and processes aimed at improving safety in the cargo handling industry.  

As a result, TT and ICHCA have decided to divide the numerous entries into four distinct categories, each of which is represented by a winner and a highly-commended entrant. 

Group image of the winners of the TT Club Innovation in Safety Award at the presentation ceremony in London

These are for:

  • Turning data into insight

Winner – Voxelfor its AI powered worksite visibility platform

Highly-commended — Pandora Intelligencefor itsCargo Intelligence: Data-driven risk assessment of shipments

  • Learning and engagement

Winner – International Transport Workers’ Federation and ITF Seafarers’ Trustfor itsInternational App-based worker training programme

Highly-commended –  Port Skills and Safety Ltdfor itsEmergency Flash Cards

  • Making operations safer

Winner – RAM Spreadersfor itsAutomatic pipe handling spreader

Highly-commended — CEPA cvfor its Ergonomic lashing tool

  • Segregating people and machine

Winner –  Straatman Mooring Systemsfor its Permanent bollard with sensors

Highly-commended — SSA Marinefor its AI driven RTG camera system

In announcing the successful innovations at a presentation ceremony in London last night, ICHCA’s CEO Richard Steele commented “As ever the judging panel felt that all the original ideas were worthy of congratulations, and further exposure.  A complete Innovation in Safety Award Digest detailing all entries will therefore be once more published by ICHCA & TT in the near future.”

TT’s Managing Director, Loss Prevention Mike Yarwood commented, “The excellence of these , and many of the other innovations put forward deserve a greater degree of visibility. This is our prime aim in proliferating the Awards in order to encourage our innovators to seek scalability, and by giving their ideas oxygen to stimulate their adoption and adaption by others within the global cargo handling environment.”

While practical operational devices tended to be the focus of invention and improvement when the Awards were first introduced the intervening years have seen technology based solutions proliferate and advanced training and safety awareness programmes become increasingly effective.   

Steele emphasises this development, “Such diversity of entries is truly welcomed.  Safety innovation is an exciting element that compliments wide ranging industry work to establish distinct safety culture throughout organisations. A well-run safety-conscious operation is both efficient and sustainable. Running organisations successfully and doing safety well require truly visible and effective commitment from management at all levels.”

The Innovation in Safety Award is part of a continuing development of TT and ICHCA’s shared goal to bring together as wide an audience of like-minded professionals as possible; in order to share experiences of both risks to safety and the successful problem solving innovations they have developed.  .

ENDS

About ICHCA International

Established in 1952, ICHCA International is an independent, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving the safety, productivity and efficiency of cargo handling and movement worldwide. ICHCA’s privileged NGO status enables it to represent its members, and the cargo handling industry at large, in front of national and international agencies and regulatory bodies, while its Technical Panel provides best practice advice and develops publications on a wide range of practical cargo handling issues.


Operating through a series of national and regional chapters, including ICHCA Australia, ICHCA Japan and plus Correspondence and Working Groups, ICHCA provides a focal point for informing, educating, lobbying and networking to improve knowledge and best practice across the cargo handling chain.

www.ichca.com

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. TT Club’s primary objective is to help make the industry safer and more secure. Founded in 1968, the Club has more than 1200 Members, spanning container owners and operators, ports and terminals, and logistics companies, working across maritime, road, rail, and air. TT Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. It retains more than 97% of its Members, with a third of its entire membership having chosen to insure with the Club for 20 years or more.

www.ttclub.com

Accolades for Safety Innovation Extended

The long-running annual TT Innovation in Safety Award organized by international cargo handling association ICHCA will this year be presented to a greater number of varied innovators with both winner and highly-commended to be presented in each of four distinct categories.

London, 4th February, 2025

The enthusiasm with which the Award has been received since its inception in 2016 is evidenced by the consistent number of inspiring entries each year.  All deserve praise for the calibre of their innovation and for the passion for safety that they exhibit. Over the years a marked increase the diversity of the nature of innovative products, services and processes has been noted. 

This year therefore TT and ICHCA have decided to highlight both an Award winner and highly-recommend other in each of four categories. 

These are:

  • Use and application of data to create actionable insight
  • Learning technology and virtual simulation
  • Practical methods of making cargo handling safer
  • solutions that help segregate humans and operational machinery

TT’s Managing Director, Loss Prevention Mike Yarwood commented, “Such has been the high standard of entries in the past it has always been difficult to select a single one to receive the Award. As the diversity and quality  of safety innovations continue to be demonstrated across more varied technologies, operational environments and with managerial dimensions, more of these excellent entries deserve greater visibility. Hence our new categorisations to extend the limelight to a greater number of exceptional new ideas.”

While practical operational devices tended to be the focus of invention and improvement when the Awards were first introduced the intervening years have seen technology based solutions proliferate and advanced training and safety awareness programmes become increasingly effective.   

“Above all, we have seen increased emphasis on the critical importance of establishing a distinct safety culture throughout organisations,” pointed out ICHCA’s CEO Richard Steele.  “The advantages of improved safety are self-evident from the standpoint of the workforce but it’s important to remember that a well-run safety-conscious organisation is both efficient and sustainable. Running an organisation successfully and doing safety well require the same visibly felt leadership skills.”

This evolution in the nature of the Innovation in Safety Award is seen as a continuing development of TT and ICHCA’s goal to bring together as wide an audience of like-minded professionals as possible; in order to share experiences of both risks to safety and the successful problem solving innovations they have developed.  Thus encouraging scalability, adoption and adaption across the global cargo handling environment.

About ICHCA International

Established in 1952, ICHCA International is an independent, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving the safety, productivity and efficiency of cargo handling and movement worldwide. ICHCA’s privileged NGO status enables it to represent its members, and the cargo handling industry at large, in front of national and international agencies and regulatory bodies, while its Technical Panel provides best practice advice and develops publications on a wide range of practical cargo handling issues.


Operating through a series of national and regional chapters, including ICHCA Australia, ICHCA Japan and plus Correspondence and Working Groups, ICHCA provides a focal point for informing, educating, lobbying and networking to improve knowledge and best practice across the cargo handling chain.

www.ichca.com

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. TT Club’s primary objective is to help make the industry safer and more secure. Founded in 1968, the Club has more than 1200 Members, spanning container owners and operators, ports and terminals, and logistics companies, working across maritime, road, rail, and air. TT Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. It retains more than 97% of its Members, with a third of its entire membership having chosen to insure with the Club for 20 years or more.

www.ttclub.com

TT Club : Continued growth in risk to inland waterway operations: Climate change resilience measures required

There are alarming warning signs says international freight and cargo handling insurer TT Club, that severe climatic events are already impacting inland waterway operations; these impacts are widely forecast to get worse in the future.

 London, 27th January 2025

2024 was the hottest year on record globally.  Reinsurer Swiss Re reported natural catastrophe losses exceeding US$100 billion for the fifth year in succession and with thirty-seven events recording losses over US$1 billion the prior year as reported by the Financial Times, from extreme weather.  Estimates forecast that insured losses could double within the next ten years.

In 2024 European waterways continued to  experience significant disruption to cargo transport.  In June the Rhine suffered from extreme weather conditions with torrential rain leading to severe flooding in southern Germany. Cargo handling was interrupted to/from Switzerland and caused substantial delays in inland traffic between the Lower and Upper Rhine.

Conversely, increased droughts have led to record low water levels on major rivers with some vessels carrying only 25% of their usual load to avoid running aground and causing delays. Shipping lines have had to switch cargo from river to rail to maintain connections between industrial regions and the ports.

“Climate change effects on river navigation are significant as it is highly sensitive to changes in weather patterns and long-term climate trends,” says Neil Dalus from TT’s Loss Prevention Department. “This challenge highlights the vulnerability of Europe’s inland waterway transport system, emphasizing the need for infrastructure improvements, planning for risk mitigation and workforce training to ensure operational resilience.”

TT’s historical data points to an continuing rise in claims from weather-related losses over the last ten years.  These result from numerous types of damage from navigational and berthing accidents to collapse of cranes and port equipment collisions to container stacks blowing over, and of course flood damage to buildings and infrastructure.

Uninsured and consequential losses can also be costly reports Dalus, “As a result of operational delays reputational damage can occur.  Emergency supplies and additional labour costs can accrue and increased maintenance, training and management downtime have to be factored in.”

TT is determined to emphasise the need for a focus on climate change resilience measures; to sharpen detailed awareness of such risks that, with undeniable global warming are clearly set to increase.  Additionally as a mutual insurer TT will work in assisting inland waterway operators to devise loss prevention strategies to help minimise the future costly consequences of weather-related incidents.

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. The Club’s services include specialist underwriting, claims management and risk and loss management advice, supported by a global office network. TT Club’s mission is to make the industry safer, more secure and more sustainable. 

Established in 1968, TT Club currently services more than 1400 Members – container owners, operators, ports, terminals and logistics companies. Its membership covers the entire logistics journey, working across maritime, road, rail, and air ranging from some of the world’s largest logistics operators to smaller, bespoke companies managing similar risks. The Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. Its average annual customer retention rate is consistently over 95%, with some Members having chosen to insure with the Club for over 50 years. 

TT Club is managed by Thomas Miller – an independent and international provider of insurance, professional and investment services.

www.ttclub.com

TT Club applauds UK Parliamentary calls for more resource to tackle freight crime

The specialist freight transport insurer has long campaigned for heightening awareness of freight crime and the need for additional security and policing resources.  TT therefore greatly welcomed the recent cross-party parliamentary debate on the issue, and the resulting support for increased Governmental resource to resolve the growing risk.

London, 12th December 2024

The UK’s House of Commons debate held earlier this month was a significant step in highlighting an issue that has a high degree of impact on public safety and the UK’s economy, in particular its future growth much relied upon by the current Government. It also acknowledged the lack of resource specifically targeted at fighting freight crime.   

National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS) is under-supported and under-funded. Their specialist freight crime investigation team currently has just one full-time serving police officer on secondment, a part-time analyst and a part-time data entry clerk. It does not have the resources to tackle organised crime on a national scale.

TT has long supported NaVCIS financially and practically. Mike Yarwood its MD Loss Prevention said, “We very much welcomed the airing of this issue at a legislative level.  The detailed aspects of both opportunistic and well planned theft; the lack of secure overnight parking facilities; the identification of crime hotspots as well as concerns over driver safety, which is discouraging female recruits, were all discussed and their significance put into perspective as priorities to be addressed.”

The UK’s road haulage industry, which moves 89% of all goods and 98% of agricultural and food products in the country contributes £13.5 billion to the economy. This represents 5.6% of the UK’s GDP. Every pound generated by the logistics industry creates three pounds down the supply chain and contributes to the economy, highlighting the widespread impact of freight crime for the UK.

Pointing to these facts Rachel Taylor MP, who led the parliamentary debate outlined the principle political implication, “Tackling freight crime is essential to achieving the Government’s five missions,” she said.

TT will maintain its efforts. Yarwood is vice-chair of the industry-led HGV Parking Capacity and Standards Task and Finish group, which the UK’s Department for Transport helped establish. Yarwood is leading the workstream focused on standards at lorry parking facilities and working with NaVCIS Freight and other industry stakeholders is producing an industry led report, which will advise the government on recommendations to reduce freight crime. 

“Our report is aimed at providing a detailed analysis of the current state of freight crime and offer practical solutions to enhance security and reduce incidents. In underscoring the importance of industry and government working together to safeguard the logistics sector, we hope our collaboration will encourage others to add their weight to the efforts fight crime,” concluded Yarwood.

ENDS

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. Its mission is to make the industry safer, more secure and more sustainable. Established in 1968, TT Club currently services more than 1400 Members – container owners, operators, ports, terminals and logistics companies, working across maritime, road, rail and air. The Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. Its average annual customer retention rate is consistently over 95%, with some Members having chosen to insure with the Club for over 50 years.

https://www.ttclub.com

Change of leadership at TT Club’s Singapore Branch as Yiah Soon Ng retires

International freight insurer, TT Club, announces the appointment of Kamel Tlili as Chief Executive of its Singapore branch as Yiah Soon Ng retires after leading Thomas Miller’s Singapore office since 2009.

London & Singapore, 27 November 2024

After five years as Chief Executive for TT Club and having led Thomas Miller’s Singapore operations for 15 years, Yiah Soon (YS) Ng has announced his retirement. He is succeeded as Chief Executive by Kamel Tlili, TT Club’s Regional General Manager Asia Pacific, who took over the role in September.

Yiah Soon (YS) Ng

Kamel was appointed Regional General Manager Asia Pacific 12 months ago and will now additionally act as CE Singapore Branch.  He is well known in the marine mutual community, having previously spent 14 years at TT’s sister mutual, UK P&I Club, both as an Underwriting Director and Claims Director and six years leading British Marine’s P&I Underwriting division in Asia at QBE. During his first year at TT Club, he has advanced the Club’s reputation in South East Asia as a market leading provider of mutual insurance to the transport and logistics industry, with unparalleled loss prevention support for its membership.

New Chief Executive, Kamel Tlili, TT Club’s Regional General Manager Asia Pacific

Speaking of the appointment, Kevin King, TT Club CEO said, “In the brief time since returning to Thomas Miller, Kamel has already made great headway in expanding the Club’s reach in the Singapore and wider South East Asian markets, ensuring the Club’s Members and the broader insurance market know that TT is committed to providing unparalleled local support and coverage.”

YS joined Thomas Miller (S.E. Asia) Pty Ltd in 1997 as claims manager for both TT Club and UK P&I Club’s Singapore Branch. In 2009, YS was appointed as Chief Executive of the UK P&I Club Branch, before also being appointed as Chief Executive for the TT Club’s Singapore Branch in 2017. He has held the role of General Manager of the Thomas Miller Singapore office since 2009. 

“YS has been instrumental in leading the Club’s operations in Singapore, and I am grateful to have had his support during my first year at TT Club,” said Kamel. “He has laid the solid foundation on which we will build over the coming years; Singapore is a critical hub for the South East Asian market and it is fitting for TT to further consolidate a strong presence for its local membership. I look forward to leading this effort. ”

Kamel began his new role as Chief Executive, Singapore Branch on 1 September 2024.

ENDS

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. Its mission is to make the industry safer, more secure and more sustainable. Established in 1968, TT Club currently services more than 1400 Members – container owners, operators, ports, terminals and logistics companies, working across maritime, road, rail and air. The Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. Its average annual customer retention rate is consistently over 95%, with some Members having chosen to insure with the Club for over 50 years.

https://www.ttclub.com

New report highlights alarming freight crime trend in Italy

The latest analysis from international freight insurer, TT Club, resilience and security network, Transported Asset Protection Association, and business improvement consultants BSI SCREEN, reports dramatic increase in freight crime in Italy with incidents of theft quadrupling in the last two years.

London, 27 November 2024

The report highlights:

  • More than 400% increase in the frequency of insurance claims since 2021
  • Nearly a third of claims arising from theft from vehicles parked insecurely or at the roadside
  • The region of Lombardy as the region with the highest rates of cargo theft
  • Significant lack of secure parking with only one space per 289 trucks
  • Notable increase in cargo theft from rail
  • Emerging trend of drone usage by criminals to investigate possible target sites

TT Club, in collaboration with BSI SCREEN and TAPA EMEA, underscores the increasing threat to the Italian supply chain pose chiefly by organised crime and its sophisticated theft methods.  The extensive report, which draws on the wide-reaching data resources of the three organisations, shines a spotlight on the dynamic and evolving nature of freight crime in Italy, and the steps necessary to combat the threat. 

Like many countries, Italy is seeing a rise in strategically planned cargo theft, with criminal groups employing ever more sophisticated means to infiltrate the legitimate supply chain. The report highlights however that Italy is particularly attractive to thieves due to its well-known market of luxury and designer goods. Indeed, clothing, apparel and pharmaceuticals are noted as the most targeted commodities.

“Italy is not alone in experiencing concerning increases in cargo theft,” comments Josh Finch, Logistics Risk Manager at TT Club. “We are seeing the same trends across the board, with major highways and industrial hubs becoming key targets for criminals. The statistics clearly highlight the key issue: cargo at rest, unsecurely parked, parked on the roadside, around these main intersections, is most at risk.”

“A lack of access to safe and secure parking is a global problem, of which Italy is an acute example,” comments Panayiotis Laimos, Standards and Training Support, TAPA EMEA. “At TAPA, we create standards that focus on all risks within an end-to-end supply chain risk mitigation model. We must focus on a ‘goods at rest are goods at risk’ strategy and combine people and technology on the best way.”

The co-authors outline the increasingly sophisticated means used by criminals to access cargo, specifically the emerging use of drones as a reconnaissance tool. “Many modern drones may operate for 30+ minutes, more than enough time to stake out a site, noting its vulnerabilities, the location of security cameras and guard stations. They are quiet, have excellent visibility and are often difficult to spot; we have even seen cases of drones entering warehouse facilities unobserved through open bay doors. In this way, thieves are increasingly able to build a profile of the goods that are stored and exactly where to find them,” explains Finch.

As with all awareness reports of this nature, TT and its co-authors are keen to offer guidance on how such theft risks can be alleviated with advice. The report contains preventative measures ranging from drone-disabling technology, radio frequency jammers, secure parking technology and the crucial importance of due diligence. “With the help of our partners, utilising a wide range of in-depth data resources, TT is committed to lifting the lid on international cargo crime to ensure the industry is better equipped to mitigate both large-scale and attritional cargo theft losses,” concludes Finch.

The full report is available for free download TT Club, BSI and TAPA EMEA | Freight crime in Italian Supply Chains

About TT Club

TT Club is the established market-leading independent provider of mutual insurance and related risk management services to the international transport and logistics industry. Its mission is to make the industry safer, more secure and more sustainable. Established in 1968, TT Club currently services more than 1400 Members – container owners, operators, ports, terminals and logistics companies, working across maritime, road, rail and air. The Club is renowned for its high-quality service, in-depth industry knowledge and enduring Member loyalty. Its average annual customer retention rate is consistently over 95%, with some Members having chosen to insure with the Club for over 50 years.

https://www.ttclub.com

About BSI

BSI is the business improvement and standards company that enables organizations to turn standards of best practice into habits of excellence, ‘inspiring trust for a more resilient world’. For over a century BSI has driven best practice in organizations around the world. Working with over 77,500 clients across 195 countries, it is a truly global business with skills and experience across all sectors including automotive, aerospace, built environment, food and retail and healthcare. Through its expertise in Standards and Knowledge, Assurance Services, Regulatory Services and Consulting Services, BSI helps clients to improve their performance, grow sustainably, manage risk and ultimately become more resilient.

To learn more, please visit: www.bsigroup.com

About BSI Supply Chain Services and Solutions
BSI Supply Chain Services and Solutions is the leading global provider of supply chain intelligence, global supply chain verification auditing services, audit compliance and risk management software solutions, and advisory services. BSI’s supply chain services and solutions and services can work independently to address specific needs or combined together to gain unparalleled visibility into your global operations. Implementing BSI’s holistic supply chain risk management suite provides organizations with a complete solution for a more sustainable and secure supply chain.

To learn more, please visit www.bsigroup.com/supplychain