Logistics facilities face increasingly complex security risks. Cargo theft, unauthorised access, internal theft and organised criminal activity are ongoing challenges for distribution centres handling high-value goods.
As a result, many logistics organisations are adopting security frameworks such as the Facility Security Requirements developed by Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA). These guidelines provide a structured approach to protecting goods throughout the supply chain, from perimeter security through to warehouse operations and transport.
To support these requirements, organisations are increasingly combining technologies such as thermal imaging, radar detection and intelligent video analytics to improve situational awareness and enable earlier threat detection.
In this article, we’ll demonstrate how integrated technologies can help logistics facilities strengthen security while supporting compliance with recognised industry frameworks.
Strengthening perimeter protection
Perimeter security is one of the most important components of TAPA-aligned facility protection. Detecting intrusions early allows security teams to respond before incidents escalate. A layered approach combining multiple technologies can significantly improve detection accuracy. For example:
- Thermal cameras can detect people and vehicles in complete darkness
- Radar can identify movement across large outdoor areas while reducing false alarms
- PTZ cameras can automatically track and verify activity
- Network audio can provide real-time deterrence messages to intruders
Together, these technologies enable earlier detection and faster verification of potential threats.
Securing loading docks and high-value areas
Loading bays, storage cages and high-value goods areas are among the most vulnerable locations in many logistics facilities.
High-resolution video monitoring combined with access control integration and automated alerts can provide full visibility over these sensitive areas. Systems can also create detailed audit trails to support investigations and compliance reviews.
In some environments, wearable body-worn cameras can further strengthen documentation and provide a clear record of events during inspections, incident response or chain-of-custody procedures.
Protecting goods in transit
Security risks do not end when goods leave the warehouse. High-value cargo can be particularly vulnerable during transport.
Onboard vehicle monitoring solutions such as AXIS F Series cameras can provide real-time video visibility, tamper alerts and event recording within delivery vehicles. Through partner integrations, these systems can also support GPS location data and fleet monitoring capabilities.
This allows logistics operators to maintain oversight during transport and quickly investigate incidents if they occur.
Using analytics to move from reactive to proactive security
Intelligent video analytics are increasingly helping security teams detect suspicious activity earlier. Examples of analytics used in logistics environments include:
- Line crossing detection
- Loitering detection
- Sound detection for aggression or break-ins
- Smoke and fire detection analytics
- Automated audio deterrence triggered by events
These capabilities enable systems to identify unusual behaviour automatically, allowing security teams to respond at speed and prevent incidents before they escalate.
A fantastic example of this in action in Sweden comes from Post Nord, who used high-resolution video and analytics from Axis to investigate a series of repeat theft incidents within its operations.
The organisation was able to analyse recorded video evidence to identify patterns of behaviour, reconstruct events and support internal investigations. Clear forensic video helped investigators pinpoint suspects and strengthen evidence gathering, ultimately helping catch the thieves and prevent further losses.
Why integrated security matters
For logistics organisations handling high-value goods, security technologies must support both operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.
Integrated solutions combining intelligent video, radar, audio and analytics can help organisations strengthen protection across warehouses, yards and transport operations.
When deployed as part of a layered security strategy aligned with frameworks such as those developed by Transported Asset Protection Association, these technologies can help logistics operators detect threats earlier, respond faster and better protect valuable assets throughout the supply chain.
Organisations exploring these approaches can access additional guidance and practical tools through resources available here.
This article is part of a three-part series exploring how logistics organisations can improve operational efficiency, reduce costs and strengthen security using intelligent technologies.
