A truck driver pulls his tanker into a gas station to deliver a load. He sets his line and is pumping gasoline into the station's tanks when a man approaches, engages him in conversation and starts asking questions. What the stranger with the foreign accent wants to know is, how many gallons does the tank trailer hold?
The driver, no fool, declines to answer. Later, as he's coming out of the station with his paperwork, he sees the same man examining the information placard on the trailer. Still later, as he's driving toward his next stop, the man passes him in a car, shouting triumphantly that he has learned the capacity of the tank.
This occurred last year, after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. It was just one of several incidents that convinced the trucking company that it was the target of terrorist intelligence-gathering.

Security has become a major concern in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. At the same time, cargo theft continues to rise, with thieves getting more brazen all the time. Whether it's the latest federal efforts to fight terrorism, common-sense precautions for drivers against theft or hijacking, or steps carriers can take to hire and train their employees for the best security, the March issues of RoadStar and Heavy Duty Trucking give readers the latest information they need to stay safe and secure.
Washington Editor Oliver Patton offers the latest from the Capitol, from a budget that beefs up security at the border and in the Department of Transportation to new rules that will require hazmat drivers to clear FBI background checks and even the possibility of a National Transportation Worker ID Card.
Senior Editor Deborah Lockridge provides the latest information on cargo theft, new ways they're targeting cargo, and common-sense tips for truck drivers and trucking companies to prevent theft or hijacking and what to do if it happens.
Among the tips and techniques for carriers discusses are background checks on drivers and other employees, installing security systems, using security guards, developing a relationship with law enforcement, and setting up a reporting procedure for cargo theft, including making sure drivers have a 24-hour phone number to call.
Tips for drivers include keeping in contact with your dispatcher, watching for suspicious activities, parking in well-lit areas where other truckers are present, not talking about your load or destination, being especially watchful right after you pick up your load, and keeping your tractor and trailer locked.
RoadStar Editor at Large Bette Garber spoke with truck drivers about what they're doing to stay more secure since Sept. 11. Many told her that being security conscious was just "business as usual," as they go about their jobs armed with common sense, low-tech locks and maybe a dog to sound the alert.