Thinking About Mexico?

Here are some key factors for a successful cross border shipment

Shipping goods between the U.S. and Mexico is a big part of many supply chains, but it can get complicated and carries some serious risks. Whether you’re moving raw materials, finished products, or anything in between, knowing your freight liability is key to making sure everything arrives safely and on time.

At first glance, cross-border shipping might seem simple enough, but in reality, it involves a lot of rules, handoffs, and potential pitfalls. Without proper planning and reliable partners, your shipment could get delayed or worse. Here are some important things every shipper should keep in mind when moving freight across the U.S.–Mexico border:

1. Gather the Correct Paperwork - Getting your cargo across the border requires a variety of documents: commercial invoices, bills of lading, certificates of origin, customs declarations, and more. Forgetting or messing up paperwork can cause delays and even big fines.

2. Secure the Right Freight Insurance - Mexican shipments are rarely insured by default, which is why Atlantic Logistics offers extra cargo insurance for purchase to help customers mitigate that risk and protect their investment. You will also want to work with someone who knows the ins and outs of international liability limits and what’s excluded.

3. Coordinating Between Both Borders - Shipments don’t just move in a straight line. It takes good coordination between U.S. and Mexican carriers, customs brokers, warehouses, and sometimes drayage providers. If one piece drops the ball, the whole chain can fall apart.

4. Knowing Carrier Limits - Not all carriers are authorized to operate on both sides of the border. Knowing who can do what and who’s responsible at each stage helps protect your freight and limits your liability.

5. Navigating Customs Clearances - Getting through customs is a big deal. You need to be up to date on tariffs, HTS codes, and compliance rules. Working with a team that’s familiar with current regulations can help you avoid unnecessary delays.

6. Planning for Security - Cargo theft can be a real problem, especially in certain areas. That’s why security measures like GPS tracking and vetting your carriers are more important than ever to keep your freight safe.

Here at Atlantic Logistics, we’ve done the homework, so you don’t have to. We don’t just move your freight; we give you peace of mind with:

• Real-time load tracking so you always know where your freight is
• Carefully vetted carriers on both sides of the border
• Expert help with customs paperwork and compliance
• Custom solutions personalized to your freight and risk level

Ready to cross with confidence? Let’s talk about how our International Services Team can make your next U.S.-Mexico shipment smooth, compliant, and worry-free.

‍

ABOUT ATLANTIC LOGISTICS

‍Atlantic Logistics provides expedited truckload and partial service on flatbeds, stepdecks, lowbeds, vans, and reefers throughout the United States and Canada. Moving over-dimensional/over-weight freight with specialized equipment, Atlantic Logistics is an approved Department of Defense and General Services Administration broker, qualify as a woman-owned business, and are members of the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), the Transportation Marketing & Sales Association (TMSA), and the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) and the National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA).

‍