Nárůst podvodů v nákladní dopravě identifikovaný ve výroční zprávě TIA

In this edition: Key findings from TIA’s fraud report and implications for logistics

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) recently made waves with its April 2025 report titled “State of Fraud in the Industry.” The report signals a significant uptick in freight fraud incidents that are plaguing third-party logistics providers (3PLs) and freight brokers across the country. Spanning the period from September 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025, a staggering 1,611 fraud reports were filed across seven critical categories. This marks a 65% increase compared to the previous eight months.

Key Findings:

• Targeting Truckload Freight: An overwhelming 97% of surveyed participants identified truckload freight as the most vulnerable category to fraud.
• Rise of Unlawful Brokerage: A striking 34% noted that unlawful brokerage schemes, where fraudsters masquerade as legitimate brokers to swindle loads or payments, were the most common type of fraud encountered.
• Diverse Fraud Types Encountered: Alarmingly, about 83% of respondents experienced at least three distinct types of fraud in the past six months.
• Regional Impact: Fraud incidents are not confined to a single area, with Texas, California, South Carolina, and Washington being highlighted as hotspots for fraudulent activities.
• Financial Strain on Small Businesses: Approximately 22% of respondents reported monetary losses exceeding $200,000 due to fraud, while 10% have invested similar amounts in fraud prevention strategies.

Chris Burroughs, TIA’s president and CEO, underlined the gravity of the situation, urging members to take swift action when fraud occurs.

TIA has also introduced a Post-Fraud Incident Checklist, which serves as a tactical guide for 3PLs and freight brokers during critical times.

Evolution of Fraud Tactics

The report sheds light on the evolving nature of fraud tactics in the industry:

• Identity Theft and Spoofing: Fraudsters have become increasingly adept at employing identity theft and spoofing techniques, with 42% of respondents indicating these as prevalent fraud experiences.
• Compromised Communications: An increase in impersonation attempts and unauthorized communication changes represent a growing concern for logistics providers aiming to maintain secure channels.

Call for Regulatory Action

The findings deliver a strong message to policymakers: immediate, coordinated action is essential. TIA is pressuring the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to take a firmer stance against fraudulent carriers and eliminate illegitimate listings within its databases. Additionally, there are calls for Congress to advance bills like the Household Goods Shipping Consumer Protection Act and the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act, aimed at providing law enforcement with better tools for investigating and prosecuting these crimes.

Market Insights

Turning the focus to broader market conditions, Dallas is seeing more than just the FreightWaves Freight Fraud Symposium this week. Outbound tender rejections have decreased by 1.23% week-over-week, bringing the rejection rate down to 4.82% in a relatively stable freight market. A notable increase in rejection rates typically brings volatility, especially when numbers hover above 7% over extended periods, as seen last April in Dallas.

The drop in rejection rates bodes well for brokers and shippers, promising improved contract carrier compliance. However, secondary carriers may experience diminished award volumes as brokers can prioritize which lanes to cover. Spot rates remain less than desirable due to falling rejection rates, suggesting that current bidding for freight may reflect on the higher side based on April’s rates.

International Trade and Tariff Developments

On another front, a pause has emerged in the U.S.-China tariff situation following months of escalating tensions and economic uncertainty. Both nations have agreed on a 90-day suspension of the majority of the tariffs imposed since April 2. This truce offers a reprieve and an excellent opportunity for additional negotiations over the coming months.

Under this agreement, U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods will drop from 145% to 30%, while China will revert its tariffs on U.S. goods back to 10%. This reduction in tariffs is more than just a win-win; it serves as the first tangible sign of easing tensions in what has been a drawn-out trade dispute.

The agreement also addresses various non-tariff barriers. Beijing has pledged to suspend or eliminate several retaliatory measures, including export restrictions and the blacklisting of numerous U.S. companies, all aimed at fostering trust and opening channels for dialogue between the two economies.

Importance for Logistics

With concerns raised over intellectual property violations following the introduction of reduced tariffs, U.S. retailers and importers can expect a smoother sail, especially given the average transit time of about 20 days for goods traveling from Chinese ports to the U.S. West Coast. This pause allows companies a crucial chance to restock inventory that may have dwindled during periods of high tax rates.

Through the Lens of Fraud Prevention

The findings from TIA highlight a critical aspect that requires continuous attention from logistics professionals: the need for evolving strategies to combat fraud effectively. While the report presents a comprehensive analysis and recommendations, nothing beats firsthand experience when it comes to understanding the nuances of fraud within the logistics sector. GetTransport.com facilitates cost-effective and global cargo transportation solutions, enabling businesses to adapt and remain resilient against such threats.

Final Thoughts: The significant rise in freight fraud incidents calls for immediate attention from logistics providers and regulatory bodies alike. As the industry evolves, so too must the strategies employed to mitigate these issues and safeguard the supply chain. The insights provided by TIA serve as a timely reminder that fraud can have dire repercussions, especially for small businesses striving to maintain their footing in the market. For affordable and reliable cargo transportation solutions, consider GetTransport.com, offering a seamless pathway to navigate the complexities of logistics while ensuring your cargo needs are met effectively. Book now at GetTransport.com.