A new report released by TT Club and BSI Consulting, in partnership with TVM, highlights a sharp escalation in cargo crime across the Benelux region—one of Europe’s most strategic logistics corridors and home to the ports of Antwerp-Bruges and Rotterdam.
According to the 2026 Freight Crime Report, criminal groups are no longer relying solely on opportunistic theft. Instead, they are deploying increasingly sophisticated methods, including AI-generated identities, forged documentation, and fake carrier fraud to infiltrate supply chains.
Globally, road transport remains the most exposed segment, accounting for 76% of cargo theft incidents, with 21% involving hijackings and 20% linked to full vehicle thefts.
The report underscores a structural shift in criminal behaviour. Organised networks are now leveraging technology to identify vulnerabilities in logistics operations. AI-powered deepfakes and automated phishing campaigns are being used to impersonate legitimate carriers, while insider collaboration provides access to sensitive operational data such as routes and security procedures.
While traditional “slash-and-grab” theft from soft-sided trailers persists, the study points to a growing prevalence of highly coordinated and pre-planned operations. Among them, fake carrier fraud has emerged as a major threat, particularly through the misuse of freight exchanges and subcontracting chains.
Geographically, the report identifies the Port of Antwerp-Bruges and the Port of Rotterdam as key hotspots. Major road corridors—including the E19, E17, A67 and A2—are also experiencing elevated theft activity, especially in unsecured parking areas.
However, the study also highlights successful countermeasures. The Netherlands’ Transport Facilitated Organised Crime (TFOC) programme has led to more than 250 seizures, driven by intelligence-sharing between authorities and private stakeholders.
Josh Finch, Logistics Risk Manager at TT Club, warned that cargo crime in the region has reached “unprecedented levels,” noting that criminal groups now operate with advanced technological capabilities and structured networks.
Johan Hemmen, Manager Prevention and Risk Management at TVM, pointed to a “perfect storm” driven by limited secure parking infrastructure and the rise of digital fraud. He stressed that stronger vetting of subcontractors, improved communication protocols and international cooperation remain critical to mitigating risks.
The report concludes with a series of recommendations, including enhanced due diligence on transport partners, reduced reliance on open freight platforms, implementation of seven-point container inspections, and stronger coordination across all supply chain stakeholders.
