Feds say a cargo theft ring took over real carriers to book loads
FreightWaves says an active DOT number, an operating history and a business email no longer prove who controls a carrier.
What happened
Federal prosecutors in Connecticut say a group bought or took control of established motor carriers starting around September 2025, including their USDOT and MC numbers, business email accounts and owners' identities. Posing as the prior owners, they booked loads through freight brokers, and at least 24 loads never arrived. A man charged with conspiracy pleaded not guilty on Oct. 21, and the charges are allegations.
Why it matters
FreightWaves says an active DOT number, an operating history and a business email no longer prove who controls a carrier, so expect brokers to look harder at recent ownership, phone and email changes.
What to consider
Check that the phone numbers on your SAFER company snapshot are right, and treat your company information like your bank details, as FMCSA advises. If you think someone is using your DOT number, FMCSA lists who to tell, including your insurer, load boards and factoring company. Check your SAFER company snapshot · FMCSA fraud and identity theft steps · What brokers check before they load you
Sources
Reporting and records credited to the sources above, Oct. 21, 2026. We link to the original and add what it means for carriers.
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