Fraudulent activities within the freight industry pose a serious threat to the integrity of the supply chain, affecting shippers, brokers, and carriers alike. In this article, we explore red flags to watch for when screening carriers, common types of fraud, and the role of technology in protecting businesses from potential scams.

Red Flags to Watch for When Screening Carriers

Detecting fraudulent activity early is crucial for maintaining the security of freight operations. Here are red flags to be aware of when screening carriers:

Carrier Contact Information

• Check for subtle alterations in email addresses or other identifying information.

• Beware of virtual phone numbers without a physical address attached.

• Verify the legitimacy of physical addresses, ensuring they are not vacant lots or shared among multiple carriers.

Authority Information:

• Verify carrier authority tenure using trusted technology.

• Cross-check Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TIN) against W9 information.

• Analyze inspection history; a lack of inspection history for a fleet may be a red flag.

Commonly Targeted Cargo:

• Stay informed about trends in targeted cargo, such as household goods, electronics, and high-demand items like solar panels.

• Be vigilant about seemingly ordinary items, as scammers frequently shift their focus to stay under the radar.

  
  

Ways to Establish, Enforce, and Monitor Due Diligence:

Preventing fraudulent activity requires a proactive approach. Here are steps to establish, enforce, and monitor due diligence:

Enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOP):

• Clearly communicate carrier vetting standards to all stakeholders.

• Ensure frontline teams actively implement SOPs to safeguard the business.

Leverage Technology:

• Embrace technology to automate and streamline the vetting process.

• Utilize features that require carrier invitations to register on your platform.

• Implement immediate notifications for changes in safety authorizations.

• Integrate technology into your Transportation Management System (TMS) for efficient compliance management.

• Foster communication with a professional network to share insights, trends, and cooperate with agencies to enhance security.

Stay Informed:

• Keep abreast of current scams and industry trends.

• Promote information security within your business by implementing secure practices.

• Educate carriers about potential fraud risks and encourage vigilance.

How Technology Protects Your Business

Technology plays a pivotal role in mitigating the risks associated with fraudulent activities in the freight industry. Here's how technology can safeguard your business:

Require an Invitation to Register:

Use technology to mandate carrier invitations for registration, filtering out potential scammers.

Automate Your Business Rules:

Employ automated systems to filter carrier preferences automatically, minimizing the risk of human error.

Incorporate Immediate Notifications:

Leverage technology for continuous carrier monitoring, ensuring real-time alerts for any changes in safety authorizations.

Use TMS Integrations:

Integrate technology seamlessly into your existing TMS, simplifying compliance changes and making them readily accessible.

Leverage the Network Effect:

Engage with a professional network and government agencies to enhance your defense against fraudulent activities.

Educate Your Carriers

Empowering carriers with knowledge about potential scams is a shared responsibility. Educate carriers on phishing scams, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in safeguarding the supply chain.

Invest in the Safety of Your Business

The freight industry's battle against fraudulent activities requires a multi-faceted approach, combining awareness, technology, and collaboration. By staying vigilant, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and fostering communication within the industry, businesses can fortify their defenses and ensure the secure and efficient movement of goods across the supply chain.