Transborder vs Crossborder Transportation: What is the Difference Between the Two?

When discussing the logistics of cross border trucking, there are many terms that pop up that manufacturers and retailers may not be familiar with. After all, moving freight over international lines is a saga all of its own, with strict regulatory requirements. 

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US shipments into Mexico (and vice versa) are increasing, with billions of dollars being spent in this sector of the industry in recent years. As the US looks to move away from Chinese imports, trade with Mexico is increasing. With that, the reliance on trucks is becoming more of a necessity.

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But what are the different ways to move goods across the border? You might’ve heard ‘trans-border’ and ‘cross-border’ thrown around. Is there a difference between the two? 

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That’s precisely what we explore in this blog post, as it’s important to understand these terms when planning which MX cross border services best suit your business.

What is Transborder vs Crossborder Transportation?

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Actually, these terms are both used to describe the movement of shipments across an international border. In the US, one of the most common phrases used is cross border trucking. That’s due to the fact that the US trades with Canada and Mexico to span North America.

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Crossborder logistics is a hot topic, especially with freight being transported between the US and Mexico. If you're a manufacturer or retailer looking to expand service into Mexico, there are significant factors to consider that are different from domestic logistics.

Mexico Border Services

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To ship crossborder, it’s important to note that US trucks cannot proceed past the Mexican border. Once the border is reached, the truck must be handed over to a Mexican carrier for delivery.

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To do this, the US carrier must be approved to travel, by producing up-to-date documents, an insurance policy, and proof of all taxes paid to the Mexican government, with no outstanding balances on record.

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This can be tricky to navigate for first timers who have never sent a shipment across the Mexican border. Fortunately, there are plenty of land transport services available.

Through-Trailer Services in California

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If you’re looking to send freight into Mexico, one of the most efficient ways to do so is with a through-trailer service provider located in California. 

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Through-trailer shipping allows the truck trailer to exchange hands at the border without transloading services. This saves times since freight doesn’t have to be moved from one trailer to another- it stays inside the same trailer. Not only is this time effective, but also reduces the risk of damages to the cargo.

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BST Linehaul specializes in MX cross border services, including services for over dimensional cargo. We know what documentation is needed, along with certifications and insurance that covers all bases. We can help get your shipment rolling without issues, with convenient operational points throughout California. Give us a call to learn more!

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