Aquatio Launches AI Chain of Custody to Combat Rising Cargo Crime

Aquatio Software has expanded its freight execution platform to include a comprehensive digital chain of custody system that records and authenticates every person and equipment transfer from dispatch through final delivery. This advancement addresses a critical operational vulnerability: while most facilities inspect documents at pickup, few establish a verified link between the receiving person and the specific load, creating gaps that sophisticated criminal networks exploit. The timing is strategic.

Cargo crime data shows that while overall theft events declined in Q2 2026, fictitious pickup incidents remained persistent at 158 incidents, with estimated losses doubling to $304.6 million and average loss per incident reaching $564,009. Industry observers expect criminal networks to shift targeting to earlier and later points in the shipment lifecycle as dock security improves, making end-to-end custody documentation increasingly valuable. For supply chain operations teams, this represents a structural shift in how fraud risk is managed.

By requiring driver authentication at each handoff using one-time passcodes, QR codes, and geofenced location verification, Aquatio creates an auditable custody chain that supports both operational efficiency and compliance. The platform also addresses emerging FDA Food Traceability Rule requirements under FSMA Section 204, which mandates shipping and receiving event records for traced foods by July 20, 2028, positioning early adopters to meet regulatory deadlines.