HOW TO PREVENT THEFTS FROM TRUCKERS ON THE ROUTE BETWEEN SPAIN AND FRANCE

Ensuring Security in International Freight Transport: Key Strategies to Protect Your Truck

Security is paramount in the freight transport sector, and at Transports Porqueres we are aware of the importance of ensuring that each shipment arrives at its destination safely and efficiently. Road transport, especially on international routes like the one connecting Spain and France, presents unique challenges and risks. Here are some strategies to prevent theft from truckers on this crucial route:

Route Knowledge: 

Familiarity with the route is essential. A skilled truck driver who understands high-risk zones, as well as safe stopping points, has a significant advantage. In international transport, understanding the peculiarities of each region can make a difference.

Use of Technology: 

Invest in real-time tracking systems. These devices not only report the truck's location but can also alert you in case of unusual behavior, such as route deviations or unscheduled stops.

Ongoing Training: 

At Transports Porqueres, we believe in the constant training of our team. A driver well-informed about the tactics and methods used by thieves is better prepared to prevent incidents.

Vehicle Security: 

Reinforce the door locks and, if possible, install alarm systems. Also, make sure the truck and the goods are adequately sealed and protected.

Goods Protection: 

Bulk, palletized, or other forms of goods transportation have specific requirements. For example, palletized goods, being more structured, may be harder to quickly access compared to bulk. Use this to your advantage and secure the goods according to their type. Additionally, avoid displaying the truck's contents and use opaque curtains or blinds to prevent someone from looking inside the trailer, reducing the risk of being targeted.

Avoid Routines: 

While it's important to know the route, it's also vital to vary stops or rest schedules. Predictable patterns can make a truck an easier target for thieves.

Stay in Touch with Base: 

It is advisable for drivers to regularly inform their bases or operation centers about their location and any unusual activity. This not only provides a log of their progress but also ensures that someone is aware if something goes wrong.

Cooperation Among Truckers: 

Sharing information between companies and drivers about dangerous areas, prevention techniques, and any suspicious activity can help prevent future thefts.

French Government Emergency Phone - 17: 

Given the recent wave of thefts, the French Government has established a hotline, number 17, so that truckers can quickly report any suspicious activity or security incidents. This line is operational 24/7 and directly connects to security forces, allowing for rapid response in case of emergency.

Park in Secure Lots: 

Go to secure parking lots based on experience and practical knowledge. You can also check website rankings of security features to select a private parking lot appropriate to the value level of your cargo. Websites such as:

TRUCK PARKING

TRANSPARK

ESPORG

If There Are No Secure Parking Lots in the Area… What Do I Do?

• Avoid choosing dark and secluded areas.
• Park defensively close to a wall or another vehicle to protect easy access to the doors or canvas and fuel tank, using walls, nearby fences, or other structural obstacles.
• Lock all doors, including the cabin, even if you're inside.
• Try to park in sight of any location with cameras, public lighting, building entrances, high traffic, or busy pedestrian lanes.
• Inform your operator about the stop's location.
• Keep your mobile phone battery charged.
• Check the vehicle after any absence.
• Avoid stopping where there are no other vehicles, or where signs of vandalism exist (broken urban furniture, walls, fences, trash, etc.).

Road transport between Spain and France is vital for many companies and businesses. At Transports Porqueres, our priority is to ensure that each truck, whether transporting bulk, palletized goods, or full loads, reaches its destination safely. By following these guidelines and staying ever-vigilant, we can minimize risks and continue to offer top-level international transport services.

Do not hesitate to contact us for further information!