Coffee and a Mike Craig Fuller of FreightWaves #1246
Nov 7, 2025
Craig Fuller, CEO and founder of FreightWaves, dives into the alarming rise of cargo theft, explaining why items like coffee and avocados are theft targets over tech. He reveals the underbelly of freight fraud, detailing how brokers and online platforms facilitate criminal activities. Craig also discusses the current state of the economy, linking freight data to an economic slowdown and cautioning about the future. He emphasizes the challenges facing the freight industry and the importance of preparing for potential downturns.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Low-Trace Commodities Drive Cargo Theft
- Cargo like coffee and avocados is easier to launder and resell than tracked electronics.
- Criminals prefer commodities with low traceability to avoid prosecution and detection.
Overseas Networks Fuel U.S. Freight Fraud
- Freight fraud is often orchestrated offshore and tied to organized crime networks.
- Pakistan surfaced as a notable hub for these transnational operations.
How Chameleon Carriers Operate
- Fuller describes how shell 'chameleon' carriers pick up legit loads, reroute them, and liquidate cargo in warehouses.
- He estimates stolen loads sell at deep discounts and the scheme repeats dozens of times daily.