Key Takeaway: Farm equipment theft is a growing issue, costing farmers millions. To combat this, adopt preventive measures such as joining neighbourhood watch programs, enhancing security, keeping meticulous records, and using GPS trackers.

Farm equipment theft is a rising concern, impacting farmers globally.

Unlike most rules, there are no exceptions when it comes to theft. From luggage to Nutella, and even identities, theft is pervasive. Agriculture is now facing an increase in stolen farm equipment.

In 2018, farm equipment theft in the UK hit a seven-year high, with losses exceeding £50 million, largely due to a 26% rise in claims for stolen tractors and quad bikes, according to rural insurer NFU Mutual.

Tim Price from NFU Mutual told the BBC, "Farmers and country people are suffering from high levels of anxiety due to repeated thefts by gangs who exploit farms' isolated locations to steal machinery, raid tool stores, and even butcher sheep in the fields.

In a single generation, rural crime has evolved from the opportunist theft of a single lamb to brazen heists of tractors worth over £100,000 and rustlers stealing hundreds of sheep."

More Cases of Farm Equipment Theft:

In January 2017, Pennsylvania State Police investigated a farm equipment theft in Dauphin County, where two Kubota RTVs were stolen from Messick’s Farm Equipment. In November 2019, a tip led authorities to recover stolen tractors worth $300,000. Additionally, Firebaugh Police constantly deal with theft cases involving equipment often shipped to Mexico.

According to Transpoco Telematics, technological advancements have made cars harder to steal, leading thieves to target tractors and similar vehicles, which are often taken to countries like Germany, Hungary, or Romania.

How to Prevent Farm Equipment Theft:

Join a Watch Program: Participate in neighbourhood watch programs to increase vigilance and reduce crime rates.

Use Locks and Enhance Lighting: Secure equipment with locks and padlocks and install motion-sensor or timer lights to deter thieves.

Never Leave Keys with Vehicles: Always separate keys from equipment and consider systems to prevent universal keys from working on your tractors.

Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of equipment, including makes, models, serial numbers, and photos. Register heavy equipment with the National Equipment Register (NER).

Use GPS Trackers: Attach GPS trackers to equipment for real-time location tracking. Trackers like Tracki offer reliable, worldwide coverage using multiple tracking technologies.