When a shipment goes missing, every minute counts. Quick, accurate loss reporting is the difference between a fast recovery and a complete write-off. At Arete Adjusting, our adjusters and field investigators have witnessed firsthand how quickly stolen cargo can disappear — sometimes within hours — particularly with the rise in organized theft, broker fraud, and misdelivery schemes.

Timely communication isn’t just helpful; it’s critical. Here’s what every shipper should know about reporting losses immediately — and how that can dramatically improve the odds of recovering your freight.

1. The Clock Starts the Moment You Notice a Loss

Cargo theft is now at its highest level in over a decade, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) and Trucking.org. The faster Arete is alerted, the faster our investigators can begin the recovery process.

Within 24 hours of a missing load report, our network can initiate local contact with law enforcement and insurance partners.

Delays longer than 48 hours drastically reduce recovery rates — stolen loads are often broken down or moved across state lines by then.

2. Details Matter: Report Everything You Know

A successful claim starts with accurate details. When you call Arete Adjusting, have ready:

A. The carrier or broker name, last contact point, and bill of lading number,
B. Equipment identifiers (trailer, VIN, tractor number),
C. Driver’s information and dispatch notes,
D. Photos, tracking data, and last-known GPS location if available. 

The more information you provide upfront, the faster Arete Adjusters can mobilize and verify the claim.

3. Don’t Wait for Confirmation — Report Suspicion

With strategic theft (fake pickups, fraudulent brokers, and cargo diversion scams) on the rise, hesitation costs recovery time. If a shipment goes silent, a driver changes contact numbers, or you notice mismatched credentials — report it. Arete can investigate before the freight is gone.

4. Involve Adjusters Early for Maximum Coverage

Insurance carriers rely on professional adjusters like Arete to validate, investigate, and coordinate claims and recoveries. Reporting losses immediately allows:

A. Early engagement with law enforcement and claims teams,
B. Securing evidence before it disappears,
C. Preventing fraud escalation across multiple shipments.

Arete’s adjusters understand the entire claim lifecycle — from field inspection to documentation and carrier liability. Early involvement ensures accurate valuations and smooth processing.

5. Build a Relationship Before the Loss Happens

The best recovery begins with prevention. Partner with Arete before an incident to establish:

1. Clear reporting channels and after-hours contacts,
2. Pre-filed shipper profiles for instant verification,
3. Security protocols for known lanes and carrier vetting.
4. Proactive partnerships save precious time when incidents strike.

Final Thought

Cargo theft isn’t going away — but quick, structured loss reporting gives you the upper hand. Arete Adjusting provides nationwide coverage and local expertise to act fast, recover faster, and protect your business from cascading losses.If you suspect a loss, report it now. Arete’s team is available when you need us. The faster you call, the better your chances of success.