The top five trends in logistic hubs security worldwide using mobile surveillance towers

Global logistics are under mounting pressure as cargo theft surges to record levels. In 2025 alone, Europe recorded over €724 million in freight theft losses, with countries like Germany and the United Kingdom being hit particularly hard. Organized crime groups now exploit insider access, cyber tactics, and fraudulent documentation to breach security at ports, distribution centers, and airports. To regain control of and bolster the resilience of complex sites, logistics operators and security providers are increasingly relying on mobile surveillance towers to provide advanced security solutions for logistics hubs.

Cargo theft in 2025 by the numbers

Cargo theft has escalated across all continents, with logistics hubs being among the most affected. According to industry reports, the EMEA region experienced a nearly 700% year-on-year increase in theft-related incidents, primarily due to increased targeting of ports and road freight near distribution centers. The global loss estimate from cargo crime surpassed €2.5 billion in 2025 (1). The most targeted goods were electronics, food, and pharmaceuticals. In North America, theft enabled by insiders and spoofed pickups dominated, while in Asia, tampering and fraudulent documentation continued to challenge operators. These figures highlight the increasing complexity of theft prevention in global logistics hubs, particularly in transit and cross-dock environments, where temporary site surveillance is frequently fragmented or under-resourced.

Mobile surveillance towers for ports and airports: growing adoption

Ports and airports have large footprints with constant vehicle and cargo movement. Mobile surveillance towers provide unmatched flexibility in these environments. Site managers can deploy them where visibility is limited or threats emerge. With mast heights reaching six meters, these towers deliver panoramic coverage and can endure harsh, high-traffic environments thanks to their galvanized steel construction. Their rapid setup suits seasonal peaks and layout shifts, making them ideal for airport cargo theft prevention strategies in 2025.

A shift from manned guarding to technology-enhanced monitoring

Rising labor costs and advanced theft methods have accelerated the shift from traditional guarding to integrated surveillance. Mobile CCTV towers for logistics operators now work seamlessly with remote monitoring centers, delivering real-time alerts and enabling swift responses. These towers are equipped with sirens, floodlights, and loudspeakers to extend the presence of security teams and support proactive audio warnings. This hybrid model enhances site coverage and reduces overhead costs, which is a crucial benefit for budget-sensitive logistics hubs.

Perimeter protection and early detection in freight terminals

The vast scale and open-access nature of logistics zones make them vulnerable to perimeter breaches. Perimeter protection for freight terminals has become a top priority. Towers fitted with AI-enhanced and thermal imaging cameras can detect intrusions in the dark and in adverse weather conditions. Their elevated surveillance platform minimizes blind spots and ensures 360-degree coverage, enabling operators to respond swiftly. This setup strengthens remote monitoring for airport security and improves threat detection across multi-entry zones.

Fuel cell powered surveillance towers and off-grid energy use

Many logistics operations span infrastructure-limited or remote zones within ports and distribution centers. Fuel cell-powered surveillance towers backed by solar panels and battery systems offer continuous off-grid surveillance, eliminating the need for mains electricity. These eco-efficient systems operate in all weather conditions and reduce emissions and energy costs. This approach provides uninterrupted coverage and is becoming increasingly vital for the security of logistics hubs in an ever-changing operational landscape.

Customization and branding in integrated logistics security

Security is now a visible part of the logistics brand. Telescopic Mast towers allow full-surface branding on all four sides, turning surveillance into a visual deterrent. Operators can customize each unit with a speaker setup, camera array, and VMS integration to address specific threats. These towers easily adapt to each site’s flow, helping logistics companies implement cohesive security solutions that align with their brand and performance goals.

What these trends mean for security providers and logistics operators

As global cargo threats increase, mobile cargo security towers have become essential to the security strategies of modern logistics hubs. They provide scalable, visible, and flexible protection for valuable goods. Security providers can introduce new service models with recurring revenue, and logistics operators can gain cost-effective, proactive site defense. In an increasingly volatile world, these towers help secure assets, reduce loss, and build trust across the logistics chain.

References

  1. Cargo theft tactics and trend report 2025 : the evolving threat of cargo theft / Munich RE, March 26, 2025

Further reading

Articles about securing logistic hubs