Railroad Cargo Theft
Theft occurring on cargo shipments transported via rail
Railroad cargo theft is a form of cargo theft from shipments that are transported via rail. It can occur while loads are in active transit or stationary in sidings or rail yards. Cargo theft is the term used to encompass all large-scale theft targeting the supply chain and logistics industries. Cargo theft operations span across the globe and are highly profitable, organized, and diverse.
Railroad cargo theft may occur in rail yards, rail hubs, or at any point while in transit. Railroad cargo theft may involve breaking into locked intermodal containers, freight cars, and auto racks used to ship new vehicles. Cargo may also be stolen after it has been grounded in the rail yard awaiting pickup.

Straight railroad cargo theft often involves thieves searching for items they can steal and sell quickly. Like cargo theft from other modes of shipment, thieves will break into containers on stopped trains then offload the product.
Strategic railroad cargo theft involves more sophistication and targets high value loads.
The FBI works railroad cargo theft cases through collaboration with the private sector and our federal, state, local, and railroad law enforcement partners.
Per 18 U.S. Code § 2117, breaking the seal or lock of any railroad car with the intent to commit larceny is a violation and punishable by fine or imprisonment up to 10 years, or both.
- Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
- File a police report with your local or state law enforcement agencies.
- Submit a tip to the FBI online at ic3.gov or tips.fbi.gov.
- Call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).