Spot Freight Fraud Before It’s Too Late | John Cantera Jr. | Ep 27

In this episode of Miles and Mentors, John Kintaro, known as the Double Broker Bounty Hunter, shares his extensive experience in logistics, fraud prevention, and dispatching. With over 25 years in the industry, including time as a logistics officer in the Air Force and managing distribution and maritime operations, John has seen the logistics landscape evolve dramatically. His journey led him to owning a trucking company, which ultimately collapsed due to financial struggles during COVID-19, leaving him with hard-earned lessons about the risks of leasing equipment and relying on high-interest financing.

John’s expertise now focuses on combating fraud in the trucking industry. He explains how double brokering and cargo theft have reached unprecedented levels, often orchestrated by organized crime groups. He details how scammers manipulate load boards, impersonate brokers and carriers, and execute sophisticated fraud schemes that leave truckers unpaid and brokers exposed to liability. He also shares how he and his network have actively worked to expose fraudulent actors, at times earning him threats from those he has disrupted.

He stresses the importance of mentorship for new carriers, advising them to work with experienced professionals before jumping into the industry. He also warns about red flags to watch for when booking loads, such as unrealistic rates, Gmail email addresses in load postings, and suspicious broker communications. He strongly urges carriers to vet dispatchers carefully, ensuring they understand compliance regulations and avoid illegal double brokering practices.

The discussion also covers the government’s slow response to addressing fraud, with the FMCSA beginning to implement stricter registration processes, including potential background checks and competency tests for new carriers. However, enforcement remains a challenge, and fraud continues to evolve faster than regulators can keep up.

John closes with practical advice for truckers on protecting themselves from scams, recovering payments from fraudulent brokers, and staying informed about the latest fraud tactics. He encourages listeners to follow his Stop the Scam series and reach out if they suspect they have fallen victim to fraud. His passion for fighting industry corruption is evident, making this an essential listen for anyone in logistics looking to safeguard their business.