AfA calls for federal cargo theft task force

The Airforwarders Association (AfA) has urged the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to establish a Federal Cargo Theft and Fraud Task Force, following new data showing that eight in ten AfA members are reporting a significant rise in organized theft and cyber-enabled fraud.

AfA undertook the survey to assess the scale of cargo crime among its members and identify where federal intervention is most urgently needed to protect legitimate carriers, shippers, and logistics providers.

The findings form the basis of AfA’s formal response to DOT’s October 2025 Request for Information on cargo theft and fraud prevention.

The results show that identity spoofing, fake carrier operations, and fraudulent use of Motor Carrier (MC) and DOT numbers are among the industry’s fastest-growing vulnerabilities.

“Cargo crime is no longer an isolated problem; it is a coordinated, technology-driven threat affecting every part of the logistics chain,” said AfA Board member David King, of AB&M Logistics, and chair of AfA’s newly-formed Truck Fraud Committee.

“AfA members work across the global supply chain, and we see firsthand how inconsistent enforcement and limited data sharing leaves businesses exposed.

“We need stronger federal leadership and a unified approach to protect legitimate operators and customers alike.”

AfA’s submission highlights that 80 percent of respondents cited fragmented enforcement and unclear federal authority as major obstacles, while 75 percent reported multi-state barriers that hinder investigations.

To address these challenges, AfA Executive Director Brandon Fried has proposed a dedicated task force led by DOT and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), working alongside the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Department of Justice (DOJ).

He has also recommended a national cargo theft database powered by artificial intelligence, stricter carrier verification rules, and uniform federal penalties for repeat offenders.

AfA represents 225 member companies across the United States and continues to advocate for a secure, transparent, and efficient freight forwarding industry.

AfA will highlight these findings and lead further discussion on cargo crime prevention at the AirCargo Conference 2026, taking place from 15th to the 17th February 2026 in Orlando, Florida.