The primary mission of a logistics department is to ensure a smooth and seamless flow of goods from the supplier to the consumer. These goods, whether it is a last-minute gift ordered for a loved one’s birthday or a large shipment of shoes destined for a retailer, can be both highly coveted and highly vulnerable. Multiple risks, such as theft, are rampant. This is why logistics companies and corporate logistics departments are ready (or should be!) to go the extra mile to secure their precious cargo.

Twenty years ago, the majority of thefts occurred within warehouses, but today, goods are most at risk of being stolen during transit. It is well known that a shipment that is not moving becomes vulnerable. Therefore, from smart locking systems to fleet management systems (such as EAF’s Gestparc), technology is now widely used to standardize procedures and reduce operational costs.

Logistics tracking via SMS: recent trends

1. Smart alarms : Mobile technologies are spreading into truck cabs, with specifically designed devices featuring automatic locking systems. These smart alarms can transmit alerts every time trailer doors are opened or closed, with SMS status notifications such as locked/unlocked.

GPS location data, combined with dedicated geofencing features, allows for the pre-selection of a specific door-opening location, thereby ensuring that the cargo is unloaded at the correct destination.

2. Freight container tracking : In a sector rife with pirates, telecommunications companies like the Togolese firm Africa Tracing have implemented real-time SMS-based container tracking systems. These systems allow importers and other freight operators to locate their containers quickly and easily, anywhere in the world.
3. Constant communication : Vehicle telemetry allows fleet managers to monitor a multitude of elements, from breaks and idle periods to off-hours usage and more. The greater the amount of recordable data, the safer the cargo will be. These services make it possible to know where the goods are and who is in charge of them at all times. For example, the company Geo-Tracking offers a trailer location system, as well as services for tracking various parameters such as speed control, working hours, or stops made.
4. Sticking to planned routes : Most telematics systems include geofencing features programmed to send SMS alerts when a vehicle deviates from its planned route. If the theft of a truck or cargo is suspected, there are starter deactivation systems that block the vehicle’s ignition. Thus, if the vehicle is stopped, it will be impossible to restart it.

Location data collected by the onboard system can also be used by legal authorities to pursue potential legal action.

5. Setting up tip lines : Companies specializing in tip line services can offer the anonymity needed to obtain valuable leads. These professionals offer both phone and internet options, are operational 24/7, and often provide translation services.
6. Improving visibility : Vehicles with very few specific markings are very popular with thieves. In addition to brand logos, it is wise to consider markings that can be easily tracked from the air, and whose traceability can be updated in real time via an SMS notification system.
7. Planning routes in detail : It is always best for your cargo to travel the shortest possible distance with a limited number of stops. Use route planning software to choose the most optimal routes, and contact local authorities for more information on the security of designated freight transport rest areas. Whenever possible, stay in secure locations for overnight stops.

In short, combining cutting-edge technology with common sense is the most effective way for your company to keep your cargo secure at all times.