Shipping & Freight News

Trust and security are critical to keeping freight moving efficiently. Traditional load boards, while convenient, often expose carriers and brokers to risk. Fraudulent postings, misdirected shipments, and stolen credentials are just a few of the hazards carriers face when working with unvetted platforms. In light of these challenges, a new generation of logistics technology firms have emerged to help safeguard communication and commerce within the industry. A leader in this field is is Highway, which provides tools to help brokers and carriers protect themselves against the risk of fraud.

For many brokers, the highest risk isn’t with their core carrier base—it’s with the 20% of shipments moved outside the usual network. Spot freight, irregular lanes, and last-minute coverage all create openings for fraud.

That’s where load-level tools like Highway’s Load Lock provide critical visibility. These systems evaluate whether a carrier has previously operated in the pickup state, how close their equipment actually is to the shipper during the pickup window, and whether that equipment is properly listed and verified. The system also assesses whether the pickup or delivery points fall within high‑risk ZIP codes, creating a full picture of whether a carrier is realistically positioned to handle the load.

If a carrier appears to be accepting a load they can’t possibly reach, such as having their nearest truck thousands of miles away with only hours before pickup, it signals potential fraud, double brokering, or the use of uninsured vehicles. Real-time alerts help brokers confirm authenticity, verify equipment, and avoid handing freight to the wrong party.

Another breakthrough is full-shipment visibility without requiring the carrier to download third-party tracking apps. By connecting with existing telematics, brokers can: This technology allows brokers to track the shipment throughout its lifecycle, verify that the truck assigned is the truck moving the load, detect route deviations early, and confirm delivery without constant manual check‑ins. All of this helps reduce friction with carriers while increasing overall shipment security.

Are new technology platforms the solution to widespread fraud in the industry? Learn more with the latest episode of the Stay In Your Lane Podcast.

Traditional load boards remain a key point of vulnerability. Highway’s Trusted Freight Exchange (TFX) has emerged as a safer alternative.

“Most other load boards, if you have a credit card, you’re good to access their platform,” says Michael Grace, VP of Customer Risk Management at Highway. “With Trusted Freight Exchange, we’re ensuring that the broker is financially stable. Any carriers doing business on the Trusted Freight Exchange, they’re not going to be taking a fraudulent load.”

TFX prioritizes verification and financial stability. On the carrier side, participants must pass a thorough assessment, including identity verification through a selfie and driver’s license scan. Carriers also provide a copy of their cargo exclusions to ensure they are only matched with loads they are authorized to haul. This system helps prevent mismatched shipments and alerts brokers when a carrier cannot transport certain goods, such as electronics.

For brokers, TFX ensures financial stability by working with verification partners who assess average days to pay and other key metrics. Brokers must meet these criteria before gaining access to the exchange, and those who fall out of compliance are promptly removed. This two-way vetting process builds mutual trust and eliminates the lopsided dynamic often seen on older load boards.

The industry faces widespread cargo theft, often targeting high-value loads such as electronics or medical supplies. TFX collaborates with federal and state law enforcement, including FMCSA, providing free login access to help track and recover stolen cargo. By offering real-time data and insights, TFX supports the efforts of law enforcement agencies and contributes to safer roads.

“We give free login to all law enforcement and try to assist them in any way that we possibly can when they’re investigating some of these cargo theft rings,” says Grace. “We will be there to provide guidance and data when they need it.”

The trucking sector has long struggled with fraudulent carriers and non-domiciled CDL holders, who have sometimes been able to pick up high-value loads without proper verification. TFX helps mitigate these risks by enforcing strict guidelines, ensuring carriers and brokers meet security and safety standards. This approach not only prevents fraud but also enhances overall safety for everyone on the road.

At Triple T Transport, safety, reliability, and trust are the foundation of our 3PL solutions. By partnering with leading technology firms such as Highway, we ensure that every shipment is handled with the utmost care and integrity. Our commitment to secure, efficient logistics allows clients to move freight with confidence, knowing their goods are in capable and trustworthy hands.