Freight Crime

Freight crime is a common problem across Europe and costs the UK economy at least £250 million annually.

It causes huge economic loss and disruption to the industry and its drivers.  Lorries and trailer loads are often very valuable, criminals know this and so will seek to target vulnerable vehicles and loads.  Take these steps to reduce targeting of your vehicle:

*Remove keys and lock vehicle doors whenever vehicle is left unattended, even for a second.

*Drive with the doors locked in order to deter thieves who may try to entre the vehicle when it is stationary.  If anti-theft systems are    fitted, make sure they're working and use them.

*Before starting your journey, decide where you are going to park overnight, if possible try and make sure it is at approved locations,    and avoid dark, isolated places.  Try to park in a way that prevents access to the rear doors.

*Use secure overnight lorry parks with the Park Mark label.  Locations of secure lorry parks in England, can be found at   www.highways.gov.uk

*If you're asked to re-deliver to a new address, always check with your traffic office first and wait for confirmation before moving on.

*Don't talk to others about what you're doing, where you're going or what you're carrying.

*Keep documentation about your load safely tucked out of sight.

*If you realise a theft from your vehicle is taking place, don't leave the safety of your cab, make sure the cab doors are locked - call the  police on 999.  If your believe there is a danger to yourself start the engine, switch on the lights and sound the horn to attract  attention.

*To prevent fuel theft, refuel just before a planned journey rather than leaving a vehicle fully fuelled overnight or use locking fuel caps.

*Most thefts are opportunistic - keep alter.

For the latest crime prevention advice visit : www.westmercia.police.uk

For crimes in progress call 999.

If you have information about a crime or anyone you suspect may be involved in criminality, then please let us know using the online ‘Tell Us About’ form on our website www.westmercia.police.uk.

If you aren’t comfortable contacting us directly, you can pass on information anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website: www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Thank you for your help. It is only by the police and the public working together that we can prevent and detect crime.