Cargo security is a pressing concern in our post-September 11th culture. Not only is the issue of terror a real and believable threat, but more pedestrian security issues--namely, theft--are still with us. Strengthening cargo security is also a vital business concern, as lost, stolen, or manhandled shipments cost companies--and their customers--millions of dollars every day.

Multiple Cargo Security Measures Work Together

For every single security measure you try, a thief will find a way around it, through it, or under it. Stealing from shipments anywhere along the supply chain is difficult to monitor and, like speeding on the highway, you'll only get in trouble if you get caught. Making it hard for thieves to work undetected deters them from stealing from well-protected cargo.

For example, a combination of pallet covers, tamper evident tape, and shock detecting seals make for a formidable security device. Each element reveals when it has been broached, making it very unappealing for the would-be criminal. Remember: any thief who plans to commit the same type of crime wants to avoid revealing his theft; anything that reveals a theft is a lost cause.

You can improve cargo security by employing just one of the aforementioned security measures, but by using all three, you are making it even more secure. When a thief has the option of a difficult theft or an easy one, he'll take the easy one every time. In the long run, it costs less to take preventative security measures ahead of time to than to replace stolen cargo after the fact.