NER® wishes all our clients and Law Enforcement partners a happy and safe July 4th holiday. We also encourage everyone to take steps to make it a crime free holiday.

Equipment theft rates generally mirror the overall economy. With the US population returning to a degree of normalcy, the demand for equipment is also returning to something pre-pandemic levels. Like other goods, there is a scarcity of some types of equipment, further fueling demand. Elevated equipment demand will result in elevated equipment crime. All areas should consider equipment theft to be a threat before and over the holiday.

The infographic shows that job site and dealer yard burglaries over the holiday are always an issue. So far in 2021 that continues to be the case. Contractors, equipment rental businesses and equipment dealers in all areas should be aware of the heightened threat of thefts especially of Commercial Mowers, Utility Vehicles, Skid Steers/CTL’s and Mini-Loaders (example: Toro Dingo). Recent reports also included thefts of Dozers, Medium Excavators and even a Grader from job sites in south-east and south-central states. Any equipment is a potential target.

Equipment rental fraud and conversion continue to plague the industry since a surge in 2018, and 2021 reports indicate this trend is not stopping. Numerous recent reports of unauthorized use of commercial accounts and online rental fraud confirm that the fraudsters will be active again throughout the summer.
Everyone should continue to be proactive in order to prevent equipment crimes from occurring. Small steps and attention to details may be all it takes to deter an opportunistic thief. Below are a few fundamentals for both law enforcement and equipment owners.