AfA calls for Federal action on growing cargo theft and fraud

The Airforwarders Association (AfA) has called on the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to form a Federal Cargo Theft and Fraud Task Force after new data revealed that 80% of its members have seen a sharp increase in organised theft and cyber-related fraud.

AfA conducted the survey to gauge the extent of cargo crime among its members and determine where federal action is most needed to safeguard legitimate carriers, shippers, and logistics providers.

The findings form the basis of AfA’s formal response to DOT’s October 2025 Request for Information on cargo theft and fraud prevention.

The findings reveal that identity spoofing, fake carrier schemes, and misuse of Motor Carrier (MC) and DOT numbers are among the industry’s fastest-rising threats.

“Cargo crime is no longer an isolated problem; it is a coordinated, technology-driven threat affecting every part of the logistics chain,” says AfA Board member David King, of AB&M Logistics, and chair of AfA’s newly-formed Truck Fraud Committee. AfA members work across the global supply chain, and we see firsthand how inconsistent enforcement and limited data sharing leave businesses exposed. We need stronger federal leadership and a unified approach to protect legitimate operators and customers alike.”

AfA’s report notes that 80% of respondents identified fragmented enforcement and unclear federal authority as key challenges, while 75% pointed to multi-state barriers that impede investigations.

To address these challenges, AfA Executive Director Brandon Fried has proposed a dedicated task force led by DOT and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), working alongside the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Department of Justice (DOJ).

He has also recommended a national cargo theft database powered by artificial intelligence, stricter carrier verification rules, and uniform federal penalties for repeat offenders.

AfA represents 225 member companies across the United States and continues to advocate for a secure, transparent, and efficient freight forwarding industry.

AfA will present these findings and spearhead discussions on cargo crime prevention at the AirCargo Conference 2026, scheduled from February 15–17, 2026, in Orlando, Florida.