ArcBest®, a leading integrated logistics company, has announced that its less-than-truckload (LTL) subsidiary, ABF Freight®, has once again been recognized for its industry-leading security practices. The company revealed that ABF Freight has been awarded the 2025 American Trucking Associations’ (ATA) Excellence in Security Award, marking a historic milestone as the first carrier to receive this prestigious honor 12 times. In addition to setting a new benchmark for total wins, ABF also stands out as the only carrier to earn the award for three consecutive years, further underscoring its consistent commitment to maintaining the highest standards in transportation security.
This latest recognition builds on an already impressive track record. ABF Freight previously received the ATA Excellence in Security Award in 2024 and 2023, reflecting its recent momentum, as well as in earlier years including 2019, 2016, 2015, 2011, 2009, 2007, 2005, 2004, and 2001. This long-standing history of recognition demonstrates not only the company’s dedication to security excellence but also its ability to evolve and adapt its practices in response to changing risks and operational challenges within the logistics and transportation industry.
The ATA Excellence in Security Award is one of the most respected honors in the trucking sector, focusing exclusively on security performance. Presented annually by the ATA’s Transportation Security Council, the award is given to a single motor carrier that exemplifies sustained leadership in security initiatives. Recipients are evaluated based on their ability to protect employees, safeguard customers’ freight, secure facilities, and ensure the integrity of equipment. The award also highlights companies that go beyond compliance, setting industry benchmarks through innovation, vigilance, and proactive risk management.
For ABF Freight, security is not treated as a standalone function but rather as an integral component of its broader operational strategy. According to Matt Godfrey, president of ABF Freight, achieving this record-breaking milestone is a reflection of the company’s deeply embedded culture of accountability and continuous improvement. He emphasized that security is woven into every aspect of ABF’s operations, from employee training programs and advanced technology deployment to strong collaboration with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.
Godfrey noted that customers place significant trust in ABF Freight to transport their goods safely and securely. In an era where supply chains are increasingly complex and vulnerable to disruptions, this trust is more valuable than ever. The company’s ability to consistently deliver reliable and secure transportation services plays a critical role in maintaining customer confidence and supporting long-term business relationships. The repeated recognition from the ATA serves as validation of the disciplined efforts undertaken by ABF’s teams across its network.
In 2025, ABF Freight took several additional steps to further strengthen its already robust security framework. Among the key initiatives introduced this year is the installation of solar-powered lighting systems across dock and yard areas. These systems are designed to provide continuous illumination, enhancing visibility and deterring unauthorized access during nighttime operations or in low-light conditions. By leveraging renewable energy sources, the company also aligns this initiative with broader sustainability goals, demonstrating that operational improvements can deliver both security and environmental benefits.
Another significant advancement is the implementation of a perimeter breach detection program. This system represents a proactive approach to facility security by providing real-time alerts whenever a fence is cut, climbed, or otherwise compromised. Once triggered, these alerts are immediately sent to ABF’s 24-hour safety communications and support team, enabling rapid response and minimizing potential risks. This level of monitoring ensures that threats can be identified and addressed before they escalate, reinforcing the company’s commitment to maintaining a secure operating environment.
In addition to these new measures, ABF Freight continues to rely on a comprehensive suite of ongoing security practices. Regular on-site risk assessments and compliance audits are conducted to identify vulnerabilities and ensure adherence to industry standards. These evaluations help the company stay ahead of emerging threats and maintain a consistent level of preparedness across all facilities and operations.
Employee training also plays a crucial role in ABF’s security strategy. The company invests in continuous education programs designed to equip its workforce with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize and respond to potential risks. This includes training on cargo theft prevention, fraud detection, and best practices for maintaining secure operations. By fostering a culture of awareness and accountability, ABF ensures that every team member contributes to the overall security of the network.
Active monitoring for cargo theft and fraud is another critical component of ABF Freight’s approach. With cargo theft becoming an increasingly sophisticated and organized activity in the logistics industry, companies must adopt advanced tools and strategies to combat these threats. ABF’s security teams utilize a combination of technology, intelligence-sharing, and collaboration with industry partners to identify suspicious activities and mitigate risks. This proactive stance enables the company to protect both its assets and those of its customers effectively.
Collaboration with law enforcement agencies at multiple levels further strengthens ABF’s security capabilities. By maintaining strong relationships with local, state, and federal authorities, the company can quickly coordinate responses to incidents and benefit from shared intelligence on emerging threats. These partnerships also support broader efforts to combat organized crime and enhance security across the transportation sector as a whole.
The recognition from the ATA is not only a testament to ABF Freight’s internal efforts but also highlights the importance of security within the trucking industry. As supply chains continue to expand and evolve, ensuring the safe and secure movement of goods has become a top priority for carriers and their customers alike. Awards such as the ATA Excellence in Security Award help to promote best practices and encourage companies to invest in innovative solutions that address both current and future challenges.
Members of ABF Freight’s Safety and Security teams formally accepted the 2025 award on April 2 during the ATA’s Safety, Security & Human Resources National Conference & Exhibition Awards Banquet, held in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The event brought together industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders to recognize outstanding achievements and discuss key issues shaping the future of transportation safety and security.
For ABF Freight, the occasion served as both a celebration of past accomplishments and a reminder of the ongoing responsibility to maintain and enhance its security standards. While achieving a record 12 awards is a significant milestone, the company remains focused on continuous improvement and innovation. By staying ahead of emerging threats and investing in advanced technologies and training, ABF aims to further strengthen its position as a leader in transportation security.
Looking ahead, the company is expected to continue building on its strong foundation, exploring new ways to integrate security into its operations and deliver value to its customers. As the logistics landscape becomes increasingly complex, the ability to provide secure, reliable, and efficient services will remain a key differentiator. ABF Freight’s consistent recognition by the ATA demonstrates that it is well-positioned to meet these challenges and set the standard for excellence in the industry.
In summary, ABF Freight’s receipt of the 2025 ATA Excellence in Security Award for a record 12th time reflects its unwavering commitment to protecting people, freight, and infrastructure. Through a combination of advanced technology, rigorous training, proactive risk management, and strong partnerships, the company continues to lead the way in transportation security. This achievement not only reinforces ABF’s reputation as a trusted carrier but also highlights the critical role that security plays in the success and resilience of modern supply chains.
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