David King of AB&M Logistics and Airforwarders Association Board member.
Fraudulent use or sale of MC or DOT numbers, GPS spoofing, and identity fraud are cited by AfA members surveyed as major risks to the U.S freight network
Washington, D.C., Thursday 23 October 2025: The Airforwarders Association (AfA) has urged the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to establish a Federal Cargo Theft and Fraud Task Force, following new data showing that eight in ten AfA members are reporting a significant rise in organized theft and cyber-enabled fraud.
AfA undertook the survey to assess the scale of cargo crime among its members and identify where federal intervention is most urgently needed to protect legitimate carriers, shippers, and logistics providers.
The findings form the basis of AfA’s formal response to DOT’s October 2025 Request for Information on cargo theft and fraud prevention.
The results show that identity spoofing, fake carrier operations, and fraudulent use of Motor Carrier (MC) and DOT numbers are among the industry’s fastest-growing vulnerabilities.
“Cargo crime is no longer an isolated problem; it is a coordinated, technology-driven threat affecting every part of the logistics chain,” said David King of AB&M Logistics, and Airforwarders Association Board member.
“AfA members work across the global supply chain, and we see firsthand how inconsistent enforcement and limited data sharing leaves businesses exposed.
“We need stronger federal leadership and a unified approach to protect legitimate operators and customers alike.”
AfA’s submission highlights that 80 percent of respondents cited fragmented enforcement and unclear federal authority as major obstacles, while 75 percent reported multi-state barriers that hinder investigations.
To address these challenges, AfA Executive Director Brandon Fried has proposed a dedicated task force led by DOT and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), working alongside the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Department of Justice (DOJ).
He has also recommended a national cargo theft database powered by artificial intelligence, stricter carrier verification rules, and uniform federal penalties for repeat offenders.
AfA represents more than 300 member companies across the United States and continues to advocate for a secure, transparent, and efficient freight forwarding industry.
AfA will highlight these findings and lead further discussion on cargo crime prevention at the AirCargo Conference 2026, taking place from 15 to 17 February 2026 in Orlando, Florida.
Notes for editors
About the Airforwarders Association
The Airforwarders Association (AfA) represents hundreds of U.S companies dedicated to moving cargo through the supply chain on all modes of transport.
AfA has been supporting member companies of all sizes for 35 years, acting as the voice of the industry and lobbying legislators to help drive sustainable practices and ensure resilient, safe, secure supply chains.
As an alliance of indirect air carriers, cargo airlines and related businesses operating across the global transportation community, we represent member companies dedicated to moving air cargo through the supply chain.
Our members include not only air forwarders, but truckers, airlines, warehouse operators and businesses delivering a range of supporting services including technology, training, compliance, insurance and legal, just to name a few industries.
From campaigning for better national infrastructure to opening discussions about carbon reductions and digitilization – AfA has promoted hundreds of its members and streamlined business models to continue the growing industry.
More information at airforwarders.org/