According to a recent story, truck cargo thefts were up significantly in 2009 and compounded by that fact that freight shipments were already low due to the recession. LoJack Supply Chain Integrity first released a report last August and now FreightWatch International reaffirms the growing number of thefts up 300% from the previous year. While 300% is an astounding number, consider all the thefts that weren’t reported since most companies tend to keep such incidents quiet.

It didn't matter if it was trucks or locked facilities. Thieves weren't exactly picky with electronics and food/beverage being primary targets. Think facilities with surveillance and trucks with tracking devices were any safer? Think again. Most thieves simply steal and hide trailers unattended to check for hidden tracking devices.

The importance of proper inventory management and knowledge about your supply chain from beginning to end is emphasized even more. Whether the inventory...