#USA #Canton #Cargo Theft #TAPA Americas #CORCA

TAPA AMERICAS Advocates for Combating Organized Retail Crime Act

On July 8, 2026, TAPA AMERICAS, the Transported Asset Protection Association for the Americas, has taken a significant step in combating the increasing issue of cargo theft in the United States by formally urging the Senate to advance the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act (CORCA). The organization submitted a letter to key Senate leaders, including Majority Leader John Thune and Minority Leader Charles Schumer, expressing strong support for H.R. 2853, which had previously passed in the House with a considerable bipartisan majority of 348 votes to 60.

Chairman Scott Cornell of TAPA AMERICAS emphasized the critical nature of the situation, stating that "cargo theft is one of the most underreported crimes in the country". According to Cornell, the absence of a standardized classification for reporting these crimes complicates the tracking and understanding of the issue. A stolen cargo shipment can be logged as auto theft, property crime, or burglary, which means that actual rates of cargo theft are much higher than the available data reflects. Cornell highlights that the incidents of cargo theft could be 10-15 times greater than what is currently reported to CargoNet, illustrating a massive and escalating problem.

Recent data underscores the urgency of the situation. Between 2021 and 2024, cargo theft incidents surged by 93%, while sophisticated strategic theft increased dramatically by an astonishing 1,475%. The TAPA AMERICAS community, a coalition of manufacturers, shippers, carriers, and law enforcement entities, has witnessed a growth in membership of over 30% for three consecutive years, driven by businesses across the supply chain seeking robust protection against such crimes.

Cornell further articulated that if cargo theft were not a pressing crisis, we would not see states form task forces, nor would carriers and brokers express worries about impending business failures. The bipartisan support the bill has garnered reflects a profound consensus on the importance of addressing organized crime that disrupts legitimate commerce and public safety.

The CORCA legislation aims to enhance federal tracking of cargo theft incidents, create a dedicated task force involving multiple agencies, and assign federal prosecutors specifically for cases related to organized cargo crime. Besides, it will establish vital information-sharing channels between the private sector and federal law enforcement, ensuring a comprehensive response to the growing menace of cargo theft. The House Judiciary Committee's unanimous approval of the bill after rigorous examination reflects a well-rounded understanding that the law addresses organized criminal activities, preserving both civil rights and economic integrity.

The letter of support from TAPA AMERICAS was also backed by the chairmen of five U.S. Regional Supply Chain Security Councils and the Western States Cargo Theft Association. Such a coalition of support underscores the widespread acknowledgment of the necessity for protective measures against cargo crimes in the transportation sector.

TAPA AMERICAS has been actively working since its inception in 1997, as a nonprofit organization geared toward tackling the multibillion-dollar challenge posed by cargo thefts from supply chains, representing a broad spectrum of stakeholders affected by such crimes.

In the face of increasing threats to the integrity of the transportation supply chain, the advocacy from TAPA AMERICAS for the passage of the CORCA is not only timely but critical. As the Senate considers this legislation, the collaboration of various stakeholders is more essential than ever in crafting effective responses to safeguard businesses and ensure safe delivery of goods across the nation.