Earthmoving Machinery Theft: Still on the Rise
Theft of earthmoving machinery from construction sites or rental yards continues to be a persistent issue, with no signs of slowing down. But how is the approach to tackling this problem evolving? And what are the most effective technologies and strategies to combat it? In today’s article, we will explore this critical issue, examining the threats and the most innovative solutions to safeguard your site and equipment. Keep reading to learn more.
Theft of construction machinery and earthmoving equipment continues to rise and has become even more frequent in 2024. Although this trend has slightly slowed in recent months, new patterns are emerging. Construction companies and rental services are among the hardest hit, leading to significant financial losses and operational challenges in fulfilling client contracts.
This is a broad and varied issue that goes beyond machinery. Accessories like buckets, demolition grabs, forks, and even small tools such as power tools and generators are increasingly being targeted, as well as mechanical, electronic, or hydraulic parts. The aim seems to be acquiring spare parts illegally for third-party repair work.
These thefts occur both on construction sites and at the storage yards of construction firms or rental businesses. In the rental sector, there’s also been a rise in misappropriation—where rented machines, sometimes of high value, aren’t returned after the contract ends or their whereabouts become unknown. Another theft trend in rental companies is the swapping of newer parts with more worn-out ones when the equipment is returned.
Stolen machinery often ends up in different markets, particularly equipment valued between €80,000 and €300,000. Until recently, construction machinery was mostly stolen and sold abroad. Now, however, stolen machinery is often dismantled and sold as parts. Larger machines are broken down to supply the market for electronic components and chips—parts that are hard to find and thus highly valuable to criminals. This trend is confirmed by the many dismantling centers uncovered in police operations, where stolen machines are stored before being disassembled.
As thefts have increased, construction companies and rental businesses have become more aware of tools to protect their equipment. However, all “traditional” security measures have become obsolete and can be bypassed by even inexperienced thieves. Examples include removing hard-to-find parts like fuses or using alarm chains, which activate an alarm when cut or bent, with a control unit that can trigger a sound alarm. Some owners of earthmoving machinery also use mechanical anti-theft systems that lock the braking system or the clutch. However, these systems fail if the machine is lifted or towed by thieves. The same goes for the block-shaft, which locks the front wheels of wheeled machines to make towing difficult but doesn’t prevent lifting. More advanced electronic anti-theft systems (which are more sophisticated and expensive) work by preventing the machine from starting unless a security code is entered. However, these systems aren’t foolproof either and can sometimes be bypassed.
Rental companies for earthmoving machinery are increasingly turning to solutions that improve and update satellite anti-theft systems. Systems that use dual GPS/GSM and radio frequency technology have proven highly effective at increasing the chances of recovering stolen equipment. The latest solutions provide even greater security, thanks to the combined action of several factors. The devices installed on machines, equipped with unjammable radio frequency technology, can track vehicles even in areas where other systems are less effective. Moreover, dedicated monitoring centers, always operational and working closely with authorities, play a vital role in the localization, recovery, and return of the equipment to its rightful owner. Telematics solutions are also on the market, enabling faster and more efficient interventions to recover vehicles before they are dismantled, and their traces are lost. In addition, manufacturers of anti-theft technologies are developing specific tags that can be placed on accessories and mobile parts. This allows for continuous tracking and monitoring of various machine components, including original parts, with real-time updates on their condition. Combating Earthmoving Machinery Theft requires a mix of advanced technology and targeted strategies. The latest satellite systems, telematics solutions, and component tags are key tools for protecting your equipment and ensuring operational continuity. Investing in security is crucial for safeguarding your business. Keep following our blog to stay up to date on the most innovative and effective solutions for your work!