How common is HGV cab break-in and load theft in the UK?

HGV cab break-ins and load theft are a significant problem in the UK. Logistics UK estimates that cargo theft costs the UK logistics industry around £250 million per year. Theft hotspots include motorway service areas, lay-bys, and industrial estates in the South East, Midlands, and North West. High-value loads including electronics, pharmaceuticals, alcohol, and tobacco are the most frequently targeted.

What are the most effective ways to prevent HGV cab break-ins?

The most effective measures include: fitting high-security deadlocks to cab doors (in addition to the standard manufacturer locks), using a steering wheel lock or gear lever lock as a visible deterrent, never leaving valuables visible in the cab, fitting a dash cam with parking mode, parking in well-lit areas or secure truck parks wherever possible, and using a Faraday pouch for key fobs to prevent keyless relay attacks.

What is a keyless relay attack and how can HGV drivers protect against it?

A keyless relay attack is a method used by thieves to steal vehicles equipped with keyless entry systems. Criminals use two devices: one amplifies the signal from the key fob inside the building, and the other relays it to the vehicle, tricking it into thinking the key is present. HGV drivers can protect against this by storing key fobs in a Faraday pouch or metal tin when not in use, which blocks the radio signal.

What should an HGV driver do if their cab is broken into?

If your cab is broken into, you should: not touch anything until the police have been notified, call 999 if the theft is in progress or 101 to report a completed break-in, obtain a crime reference number for insurance purposes, photograph the damage before anything is moved, report the incident to your employer, and notify your employer's insurance team. If documents such as your driver's licence or tachograph card have been stolen, report this to the DVLA and DVSA respectively.

What are the safest places for HGV drivers to park overnight in the UK?

The safest overnight parking options for HGV drivers in the UK are CCTV-monitored secure truck parks accredited under the Freight Transport Association's Secure Parking scheme. Well-known secure truck parks include those operated by Truckstop Network, Welcome Break, and Moto. Drivers should avoid isolated lay-bys, particularly in known theft hotspots such as the M25 corridor, M6 in the Midlands, and the A1 in the North.

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