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What is TAPA?
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TAPA, the Transported Asset Protection Association, is a worldwide coalition of manufacturers, shippers, carriers, insurers, service providers, law enforcement and government agencies concerned with the risks of criminal activity against HVTT (High Value Theft Targeted) cargo in the transportation supply chain. TAPA members work together to prevent theft and other crimes against the transportation supply chain through the sharing of information, development of supply chain security standards, and cooperation with government agencies.
TAPA Americas is one of three primary branches of TAPA worldwide; the other two being TAPA EMEA (Europe and Africa) and TAPA APAC (Asia/Pacific). Through these branches, TAPA also has chapters in South Africa and Mexico, and is in process of developing chapters in other countries where cargo crime is prevalent. Each TAPA branch or chapter participates as a member of the worldwide organization, but also responds to the needs of its own regional members. TAPA membership and TAPA certification of facilities in the transportation supply chain have become recognized as the best in class in the fight against cargo crime.
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HVTT Theft -- a Shared Problem
Cargo theft is a major problem for many industries. Theft of electronics, pharmaceuticals, clothing, high end foodstuffs, auto parts, building supplies and almost any other cargo of value is a daily event in the Americas accounting for billions of dollars in lost revenue, compromised brand integrity, and, in some cases, a direct threat to consumers. Government programs like C-TPAT focus on preventing the introduction of dangerous items into the supply chain. TAPA focuses on theft from the transportation supply chain, but these concerns are interrelated which is why TAPA and government agencies must and do work together.
Many issues have contributed to the increase in theft of HVTT cargo:
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The legal penalties for cargo theft are often lower than for other similar crimes.
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Law enforcement, except where specially designated task forces are in place, tends to have other priorities and there is no consistently coordinated national law enforcement response to cargo crime in any North or South American country.
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Cargo in transit, especially in trucks and warehouses, is relatively easy to access, especially if security protocols are not in place.
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High value loads, especially of electronics, cigarettes, pharmaceuticals, clothing and other HVTT goods, are common on the highways and in storage facilities -- this is a target rich environment.
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Globalization of corporations may increase the risk of theft, especially when growth occurs faster than security protocols.
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Organized gangs have become stronger in some countries, out-numbering and out-resourcing law enforcement, and attacking high value targets both on the road and in storage.
 A Movement Toward Standardization and Industry Change
The leverage exerted by TAPA and its members is having a positive impact::
- Major freight handlers are joining TAPA, moving toward TAPA-recognized security standards for the care and handling of freight, and are recognizing the inherent value of facility certification.
- The "TAPA" name is recognized as a worldwide benchmark for the best of class in security handling guidelines and practices.
- Insurers are asking prospective customers who manufacture, ship, handle or store HVTT about their security practices, and specifically whether they are members of TAPA
- Government agencies have recognized the TAPA FSR and TSR standards as best in class in their development of homeland security initiatives
 The Business Case For TAPA Participation
Security departments within progressive companies are being recognized as a significant value added within their companies. Security professionals at firms dealing with HVTT cargo are often considered real business partners, providing valuable security advice and consultation to business unit managers - information and advice which can enhance the company's ability to succeed. Knowledge is power, and today's security professionals can gain priceless knowledge through TAPA participation which can translate into some of the following business benefits for companies:
- Reduced losses associated with transportation-related thefts through utilization of TAPA's comprehensive cargo handling security guidelines -- guidelines created with the assistance of literally hundreds of years of combined security experience of TAPA members.
- Economic benefits of better security and more attractive freight carrier contract terms resulting from the implementation of TAPA's TSRs (Trucking Security Recommendations).
- A reduction in stolen shipments, thereby reducing customer inconvenience and supply chain disruptions.
- A reduction in the incidence of lost sales or lost market penetration related to gray market or illegal product diversion problems.
- Protection of brand and product integrity through the reduction in theft.
- The combined leverage of over 400 of the world's largest companies at work with with governments, insurers and carriers. Being a part of a "safety in numbers" solution to HVTT cargo crime.
For information on TAPA Membership click here!
Contact: info@tapaonline.org
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