Matson introduces enhanced security measures amid surge in cargo theft

Matson is stepping up its cargo protection strategy in response to rising theft across US intermodal networks, introducing new security measures from the second quarter of 2026.

The company will deploy tracking devices on containers moving from Los Angeles to destinations across the BNSF rail network, including Dallas, Chicago and Memphis, at no additional cost to customers.

In parallel, Matson has partnered with BNSF to reposition containers within railcars, placing them in lower wells to improve security during transit.

The initiative reflects growing concern across the industry. Cargo theft has become increasingly sophisticated, with fraud and deception playing a larger role in organised theft activity.

Industry data highlights the scale of the issue. A survey by the American Transportation Research Institute reported more than $16 million in stolen cargo among a sample of carriers in 2023, with total economic impact potentially reaching between $1.8 billion and $6.6 billion.

CargoNet figures also show a 13% year-on-year increase in theft incidents in 2025.

Matson said the new measures are designed to significantly reduce risk exposure, even if no system can eliminate theft entirely.

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