What to Do After A Vehicle, Equipment or Fuel Theft
Author, Jessee Keirstead, Risk Control Consultant, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
When a company vehicle, piece of equipment, or fuel supply is stolen, taking immediate and organized action is critical. A prompt response can increase the chances of recovery, support insurance claims, and help minimize business disruptions.
By following a clear reporting process and preserving important documentation, companies can assist law enforcement, strengthen claim investigations, and alert others who may help identify or recover stolen assets. The following steps outline the key actions to take as soon as a theft is discovered.
1. Call Local Police
As soon as a theft has been identified, call the police and file a report. Provide the PIN/serial number, photos, GPS pings, geofence event, etc.
2. Report Theft to National Equipment Registry (NER)
After contacting the police, submit a free theft report to the NER which requires a police report. The NER will then alert the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB).
3. Notify Your Broker and Insurance Carrier
Reach out to your insurance broker/carrier to report the loss. Record keeping is important and can help subrogation efforts and shorten claim investigation time. Collect purchase records, PIN plate, concealed markings, maintenance logs, tracker IDs, geofence history, and other information that can be useful.
4. Contact Contractors
Share photos and serial numbers with state and local contractors who thieves may target to sell your used vehicles and equipment.
Using Rancho Mesa’s proprietary SafetyOne™ mobile app to document vehicles and equipment left on jobsites, along with fuel deliveries and fueling schedules, can help companies quickly identify when an asset or fuel supply is missing. Maintaining accurate, real-time records of equipment locations, usage, and fueling activity provides valuable information that can support theft investigations, improve recovery efforts, and reduce the time spent determining when and where a theft occurred.
The best protection against theft is a combination of preparation and prompt action. By maintaining detailed records, leveraging technology to track assets, and following the reporting steps outlined above, companies can improve their chances of recovering stolen property and minimizing business disruption. A proactive approach not only strengthens security but also helps protect your employees, customers, and bottom line.