Equipment Theft: How is it Possible and How to Prevent It?

Heavy equipment is obviously big, loud and hard to operate if you don’t have the skills. How is it possible to steal it then? When you think of the increasing demand of equipment and specialized market, it can be understandable why equipment theft is one of the leading robbery cases in the world today.

The leading countries and cities in construction and infrastructure industries are the prevalent victims of equipment theft. From more than ten states in America to Europe, Japan and Singapore, billions of dollars are lost annually because of this issue.

Axis Capital Group, a company which sells and rents capital equipment in Singapore and distributor to neighbor Asian countries has stated that backhoes and skid steers are some of the most popular equipment to be stolen. The company has already reported more than 10 equipment lost since its operation in Jakarta, Indonesia in 2013.

For most analysts, thievery is not only done by amateur scammers who seek opportunities to steal just some machine to sell. Sophisticated criminal groups know what type of machine is in demand in the market and what cost more in the international trade. These fraudsters are also operating with the most discreet and strategic plans, professionals and experts in the field.

For equipment owners, extra precaution is needed to prevent thievery.

• Keep pertinent details and information on all your equipment. Anything that can help identify a machine would help in the investigation if the equipment is stolen.

• Register your equipment with an organization that maintains databases of heavy equipment ownership, theft information, etc.

• Do background and reference checks on all potential employees. Some thievery is done by an insider so you also have to be careful who you employ

• Keep a log book on whoever enters and exits the place where you keep your machine

• Try to keep a site’s perimeter fenced and equipped with well-secured gates. You can also hire a trusted security personnel

• Keep your site well lit at all times, or install motion-activated lighting.

• Make sure all keys are removed from equipment when it’s not in use and kept in a lock box or other secure location. Keep a record of keys and a sign out/sign in sheet.

Install gauge protectors and panel locks on your equipment, or install engine immobilizer systems to make it hard for fraudsters to disconnect batteries or fuses. It is also good to invest to a more advanced security gadget. A GPS tracking device can greatly help.