Wabash, a leading trailer manufacturer, has recently introduced a groundbreaking cargo assurance solution that aims to revolutionize the way trailers are used to prevent cargo theft. This innovative system transforms traditional trailers into what Wabash refers to as “platform trailers,” capable of providing end-to-end cargo assurance.
The announcement of this new solution was made at Manifest 2026, marking a significant milestone in Wabash’s efforts to enhance cargo security. The technology, developed following Wabash’s acquisition of TrailerHawk.AI in February 2025, integrates a physical locking mechanism within the trailer with a mobile application. This combination creates a digital seal and allows for controlled access to the cargo throughout its journey.
Cargo theft is a significant issue within the transportation industry, costing as much as $6.6 billion annually, according to the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI). With the introduction of this cargo assurance solution, Wabash aims to address this problem by providing a secure and connected system that helps prevent theft rather than simply documenting losses after they occur.
Brett Suma, managing director at Wabash, emphasized the importance of moving away from disconnected cargo security tools towards a more proactive approach. The Wabash solution fills a crucial gap in traditional cargo security by offering multiple secure points of contact at the cargo door, enabling encrypted communication, in-transit monitoring, and proactive intervention.
The system requires rigorous driver verification before freight is transported. Drivers are required to upload their commercial driver’s license, use phone biometrics to access the application, and complete verification linking them to their carrier. This process ensures that only authorized personnel have access to the cargo.
Moreover, the platform replaces traditional seals with a fully digital system that logs every cargo access event, providing detailed information on who accessed the cargo, when, and why. Shippers can configure access permissions based on specific criteria such as geofenced locations or consignee authorization.
In addition to preventing opportunistic theft, the system also targets strategic cargo theft, where legitimate drivers are unwittingly involved in fraudulent schemes. By verifying driver identity, carrier relationships, and physical access at the cargo door, customers can reduce the risk of such incidents.
Real-time alerts notify stakeholders of unauthorized breaches or changes in cargo status, ensuring prompt intervention in case of any suspicious activity. The system also includes a mounted camera system that uses computer vision to monitor cargo condition and generate automated digital bills of lading.
Wabash has integrated the platform with industry-leading technologies for carrier verification and tracking continuity, making it compatible with various transportation management systems. The hardware is designed to run on tractor power with battery backup and optional solar redundancy, offering reliability and flexibility.
While the system will be available on new trailers from 2027 onwards, it can also be retrofitted on existing trailers, making it accessible to a wider range of customers. With over 2,000 drivers already using the application and more than 200 carriers onboard, Wabash’s cargo assurance solution is poised to make a significant impact on cargo security in the transportation industry.
