With the holiday weekend coming up, professional drivers should be extra cautious and aware of their surroundings. FreightWatch International and CargoNet have each issued warnings, along with recommendations to carriers and drivers regarding annual increase cargo theft activity during the Memorial Day weekend. In 2015, the firm saw a record-high cargo theft incidents averaging more than $600,000 in value in the last four years, 98 cargo theft have occurred during the same weekend.

CargoNet shared some best practices for drivers working over the holiday weekend:

• Secure all trailers both loaded and unloaded with a lock. When parking for the night, back the trailer up to a fence or light pole where the doors can't be opened.
• Avoid stopping immediately after you pick up the load or trailer. They recommend driving at least 200 miles before stopping.
• Make sure you arrive at the customer well rested, showered and full fuel tank. Keep an eye on your surroundings and trust your instinct. If something looks out of place, err on the side caution.
• Never leave your truck unlocked and unattended. Remove all keys and make sure trailer is locked before you leave the equipment.