lack of available truck parking and cargo theft

Many truck drivers are finding it difficult to locate safe and secure truck parking on their routes. According to the  American Transportation Research Institute Critical Issues in the Trucking Industry -2022 report,  the lack of available truck parking rose one spot on the critical issue list making it the third-ranked issue this year. The survey respondents represented professional truck drivers (47.2%), motor carrier executives and personnel (38.8%), and other industry stakeholders (14%), including industry suppliers, driver trainers, and law enforcement. When viewing the responses of Commercial Drivers only, the lack of available truck parking was the first-ranked issue. The report points out that the problem is particularly challenging in and around metropolitan areas where there is increased demand for truck freight but residents are unwilling to create truck parking.  Various transportation industry groups have made legislators aware of the lack of truck parking spaces and they are working on laws to handle this problem nationwide.

Lack of truck parking can lead to security issues as drivers may choose to park in unsafe locations like the shoulder of the road, exit ramps, or vacant lots. Often these types of locations are isolated and not well lit, creating an opportunity for cargo thieves.   There are multiple physical security devices drivers can use to help prevent theft and pilferage.

To protect a parked tractor from theft or unauthorized driving, use the ENFORCER® Air Cuff Lock. Constructed of thermoformed, high impact resistant polycarbonate material, the lock completely covers and locks the dash mounted air valve levers to prevent the truck and trailer brakes from being released. The unit is portable and easy to install with no drilling or permanent installation parts required.  An ABLOY® heavy duty lock cylinder is included. The cylinder keyway face spins freely to prevent drill bits from penetrating the lock.  ​

​Another option to protect the trailer is a steering lock. The ENFORCER Tractor Steering Joint Lock slips into the universal joint on the shaft in the engine bay on most tractors to make steering impossible. The insert is formed from heat treated, chrome plated steel and secured with an ABLOY 341 high security padlock.

Cargo thieves take advantage of opportunities to quickly steal or pilferage a trailer such as one parked in a vacant lot. The ENFORCER Roll Up Door Lock is a heavy duty solution to this threat. The unit is permanently installed and does not interfere with cargo handling. When the door is closed, the interior jaws spring open to close around the carbon steel pins in the base that is welded to the floor. The Roll Up Door Lock includes an ABLOY® lock cylinder that can be keyed individually or to a master system.

To prevent break-ins and pilferages of swing door trailers use a robust back door lock such as the ENFORCER Adjustable Lock or hasp and padlock assembly. The Adjustable Lock is portable and ready to use out of the box. The lock secures both the passive and active doors at the same time. The Adjustable Lock has a cast steel block that protects the included ABLOY 350 padlock for maximum security from physical attack.

Ideally, drivers should plan where to park along their route ahead of time. Planning helps to avoid unsafe parking situations. If drivers do park in less desirable locations, be sure they are protected by layers of security including heavy duty locks.