The summer holidays are often the most active equipment theft periods nationwide. Based on current loss reports to NER, Labor Day 2024 is expected to follow that pattern. All areas should consider equipment theft to be a threat just before and over the holiday.

The infographic shows that dealer/rental store locations are the most common target of thefts, followed by jobsites. Machine thefts from storage locations including contractor’s yards and farm sites are also prevalent.

Equipment rental fraud and conversion thefts, especially of Toro Dingo and Bobcat MT series Mini Loaders, continue to be major drivers of the high number of rental business losses in 2024.

Equipment rental fraud and conversion thefts plagued the industry since a surge in 2018. This trend is not stopping in 2023. Reports show that despite recent busts, fraudsters were and continue to be active everywhere equipment is in demand.

Prevent equipment crimes with a few small steps and minor attention to details to deter an opportunistic thief. Below are a few fundamentals for both law enforcement and equipment owners.

Please report any theft or fraud to NER online, or email NER at info@ner.net

Law Enforcement personnel are encouraged to verify the status of equipment in-transit over the holiday which may be an undiscovered theft. Contact NICB 24 hours a day for access to NER’s equipment ownership registration data and fleet records 800-447-6282. Or register to search NER’s data online at https://application.ner.net

Industry personnel are encouraged to contact local Law Enforcement (911) about any suspicious activity; being in the industry you know when something isn’t right – don’t let it go.