Summary:

• Supply chain disruptions can create security gaps at ports, warehouses, and in last-mile delivery.
• Criminal networks are targeting those gaps more often during delays, reroutes, and staffing changes.
• In 2025, risks include cyber threats, insider activity, and vendor compliance failures, alongside traditional cargo theft.
• Stronger visibility, vendor accountability, and regular assessments are key to reducing exposure.
• Logistics security is becoming a competitive advantage, not just a loss prevention measure.

The Human Side of a Global Problem

It started with a call just before sunrise.

A regional operations manager learned a high-value shipment never made it from the port to the warehouse. The truck was found hours later, empty.

The thing that bothered him most was not the loss itself, but how it all seemed obvious in hindsight.

There had been delays at the port. The route had been changed. A temporary driver had been assigned. One scheduled check-in never happened.

More leaders are asking the same question in 2025: Are we treating supply chain security as a core part of operations, or are we only thinking about it when something goes wrong?

How Supply Chain Disruptions Create Security Risks

When a shipment slows down or changes direction, security risks change with it.

• Cargo sitting idle is easier to target.
• New routes can mean unvetted facilities or partners.
• Staffing changes can introduce insider risk.
• Disruption can distract teams from following security protocols.

In other words, every operational hiccup can open a new door for someone looking to take advantage.

The 2025 Supply Chain Threat Map

Ports and Points of Entry

Ports involve many different players: port authorities, customs, carriers, and third-party handlers. Each has its own processes and security standards, which can leave gaps. Delays often mean cargo sits in staging areas longer than planned, sometimes with minimal oversight.

Warehouses and Distribution Centers

Inventory swings, seasonal staffing, and varying security practices between facilities make warehouses a common point of exposure. Inconsistent background checks and blind spots in surveillance can leave goods vulnerable for days without detection.

Last-Mile Delivery

In the final stage, shipments often move in smaller vehicles with predictable routes. Without strong tracking and verification, it’s easier for a bad actor to stage a stop, impersonate a driver, or redirect a delivery.

Why This Year Feels Different

The risks aren’t necessarily new, but several trends are making them harder to manage at once.

• Labor shortages have increased reliance on temporary staff and subcontractors.
• Greater use of technology has brought new benefits, but also new cyber risks like GPS spoofing and data theft.
• Economic pressure has pushed some vendors to cut corners on security.
• Geopolitical instability has led to longer customs inspections and more frequent reroutes.

This combination means companies need broader visibility and more consistent standards across the chain.

Practical Steps to Improve Logistics Security

Expand Risk Assessments

Look beyond your own facilities. Include ports, carriers, cross-docks, and last-mile partners. Confirm whether they meet your standards in practice, not just on paper.

Use Protective Intelligence

Monitoring open sources, industry chatter, and route-specific crime patterns can give you early warning. That allows you to change schedules, routes, or security measures before an incident happens.

Set Clear Vendor Standards

Include specific, auditable security requirements in contracts. Make it clear that you expect both physical and cyber safeguards.

Pair Technology with Human Oversight

Tools like GPS tracking and cargo sensors are valuable, but only if someone is actively reviewing the data and ready to respond.

Train for Real Scenarios

Run drills for theft, diversion, and cyber interference so teams know what to do before they are in the middle of an incident.

The Executive Perspective

For company leaders, strong supply chain security protects more than goods. It preserves customer relationships, helps meet contractual obligations, and prevents costly disruptions. In a competitive environment, demonstrating that your operations are secure can be the deciding factor in winning or keeping business.

When your name is on the door, risk is personal. Protecting the supply chain protects your reputation.

FAQs: Supply Chain and Logistics Security in 2025

How do supply chain disruptions impact security?

Delays, reroutes, and staffing changes can introduce new vulnerabilities at every stage, from ports to last-mile delivery.

What is the most common risk right now?

Cargo theft is still a major issue, but insider activity and cyber-enabled interference with routing and tracking systems are growing.

How can mid-sized companies strengthen supply chain security without hiring a CSO?

Consider using a fractional security leader or specialized consulting firm to manage assessments, vendor alignment, and intelligence monitoring.

Is cargo theft increasing in 2025?

Yes, industry data shows theft rates rising during periods of high disruption, such as labor strikes or weather-related delays.

What role does technology play?

Technology improves visibility, but it must be paired with active monitoring and trained staff to be effective.