Three weeks ago, I read a police report about a driver who paid to park in a “premium” space in a truck stop parking lot. Premium supposedly means secure and well-lit. This wasn’t premium.
The driver went inside for a shower and returned 20 minutes later. His truck and trailer were gone! Bad surprise: the security cameras hadn’t been working for weeks.
The truck and trailer were found later in a neighboring city, but the load was gone.
Almost daily, the Southwest Transportation Security Council sends BOLO reports to its members regarding stolen cargo. 60% of cargo theft reported by Overhaul is “Straight” theft – cargo pilfered from a parked trailer, a stolen trailer or a stolen truck and trailer.
Texas is one of five states that are hotspots for physical cargo theft. Dallas, specifically, is one of the hottest. Most straight thefts occur at truck stops, unsecure parking areas and warehouse/distribution lots.
Last week, another truck and trailer, loaded with refrigerators, was taken from an unsecure distribution center lot near the truck stop. It was never recovered.
What’s the best defense? A truly secure parking lot.
Do Your Research before you park
Time to stop? Watch out: ‘Secure’ doesn’t always mean secure enough!
Read the customer reviews. They’re made by drivers like you.
Call ahead and ask a few specific questions, such as:
Gated access? With your reservation, you should receive unique, non-transferable access (license plate reading cameras or a link on your cell phone).
Perimeter fencing? The lot should be completely fenced with no obstructions.
Security cameras? Cameras should be monitored 24/7 – Not just reactive but pro-active!
Lighting throughout the entire lot? No dark parking spots or walking areas.
24/7 staff onsite? Nothing replaces a real person to ensure safety and answer questions.
Is the lot spacious and clean? A clean, paved lot reduces truck wear and signals an operator who cares about customers.
View attachment Truck and load stolen in 20 minutes. Don’t let it happen to you!.mov
At SafeStop, we can answer YES to all these questions.
SafeStop offers REALLY secure parking!
The process is simple at SafeStop: Make a reservation before arrival or when you arrive at the gate; and an onsite manager will help you if necessary. You can take a free shower in the clean bathroom, do your laundry for free, and get a good night’s rest. You are protected and so are your load and your equipment.
