Targeted Theft Tactics and How Heavy-Duty Locks Can Stop Them

1. Seal-Only Trailers & Door Prying

• Tactic: Thieves use force to pry open swing or roll-up trailer doors.
• How Locks Help: The ENFORCER® Hasp + ABLOY® padlock systems physically block swing door movement and resist cutting tools, making quick break-ins nearly impossible. The ENFORCER® Roll Up Door Lock or portable CargoGuard protect roll up doors.
• Tactic: Plastic seals are easily cut.
• How Locks Help: Our locks provide real security, not just tamper evidence. The ENFORCER® Seal Guard combined with an ABLOY® padlock offers protection and visual deterrence, steering thieves toward softer targets.

2. Drop Lot & Yard Theft

• Tactic: Unattended trailers in unsecured yards are broken into or stolen entirely.
• How Locks Help: ENFORCER® King Pin and Landing Gear Locks prevent unauthorized trailer movement. Adjustable Trailer Door Locks protect doors on stationary trailers awaiting pickup.

3. Pilfering at Rest Stops or Truck Stops

• Tactic: Thieves open trailer doors and quickly remove cargo while the driver is away.
• How Locks Help: Our locks prevent easy entry, stopping quick grab-and-go theft attempts that rely on speed and minimal resistance.

4. Ride-Along or Cling-On Thefts

• Tactic: Thieves cling onto trailers in motion or briefly stopped, especially in cities.
• How Locks Help: Locking swing or roll-up doors with ENFORCER® Adjustable Trailer Door Locks, Hasps, or Seal Guards removes easy access points and protects against quick grabs.

5. Coordinated Crew Thefts

• Tactic: Coordinated theft attempts involving multiple individuals remain a concern in high-risk areas.
• How Locks Help: ENFORCER® locks are built to withstand forced entry, adding critical resistance that helps prevent quick access and increases the likelihood of detection before a theft can occur.

Fleets are Fighting Back With Layers of Security

Physical locks remain one of the most cost-effective defenses against rising theft. Whether guarding doors, king pins, or trailer movement, our ENFORCER® products are engineered to deter and defend. If you need guidance on current cargo theft tactics or want help selecting the right prevention tools for your fleet, our team is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation.

Key Takeaways

1. Cargo theft is rising in 2025, with thieves targeting trailers at rest stops, drop lots, and unsecured yards using fast, coordinated tactics.
2. Plastic seals aren’t enough—ENFORCER® locks physically block access and resist cutting tools, helping prevent quick grab-and-go thefts.
3. Layered physical security works—locking doors, landing gear, and king pins adds critical resistance and deters both solo and crew-based theft attempts.