Dry van shipping trailers are the most popular choice of freight transportation in the country. These box trailers are well-suited to transporting a wide array of goods and can vary in terms of dimensions and features. One of the best characteristics of these vehicles is that they are enclosed and can provide good protection against theft and adverse weather. However, there is more that can be done to better reduce the risk of theft when hiring or investing in these dry van trailers.
Dry van trailers driver
Ensure that the driver you engage to drive the trailer is the right person for the job. A valid CDL license is necessary for driving such large vehicles. Besides technical competency, you also need to ensure you are dealing with a trustworthy person. A background check is always advisable. This assessment or vetting will provide better peace of mind when handing over your vehicle and cargo to this person.
Tracking technology for dry van trailers
Invest in tracking technology, and if possible, display this information. Making it clear to the driver and any thieves that you have installed such technology on the vehicle and its cargo will discourage any attempt at theft.
Invest in good locks in dry van shipping trailers
There are many state-of-the-art locking mechanisms that you can invest in that will make it ridiculously hard for a would-be thief to gain access to your cargo. Even where the trailer will travel short distances, you can never assume that all will be well. Ensure your driver knows to keep checking on the locks whenever they make a stop and before walking away from the trailer or resuming the journey.
Dry van trailer trends
Try to keep updated with the dangers of your industry, including how thieves and other offenders may attempt to target dry van shipping trailers. Criminals often change their strategies and being informed could allow you to avoid being a victim. Talk to law enforcement and security experts to find out how you can keep your vehicle and cargo safe. Also, always review the routes your vehicles take and make note of any crime hotspots that may require extra vigilance. Train your drivers on the same regularly.
Plan for minimal stops
The fewer stops your vehicle makes along the way, the fewer opportunities there are for criminal actions to be undertaken. Work out the coordination so your drivers can limit their stops as much as possible, especially when carrying high-value cargo. Try to ensure your vehicles are adequately fueled at the start to also limit how often they would need to stop at service stations.