Cross-border trucking mistakes between the US, Mexico, and Canada present unique challenges that can quickly derail even the most carefully planned shipments. With cross-border freight valued at $131.6 billion in February 2025 alone, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, logistics professionals’ stakes are incredibly high.
Recent tariff threats have created a frenzy in cross-border operations, with many companies experiencing increased wait times and some even halting shipments altogether amid uncertainty. Understanding these complexities is the first step toward avoiding costly mistakes.
Top 10 cross-border trucking mistakes to avoid
The difference between smooth cross-border operations and expensive delays often comes down to avoiding these common pitfalls.
According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, truck freight valued at nearly $88 billion was hauled across North American borders in January 2025 (a 10% increase from the previous year), so the financial impact of these mistakes can be substantial.
Let’s examine the most frequent errors that plague cross-border trucking operations and how you can prevent them from affecting your supply chain.
1. Waiting too long to establish a customs broker setup
Many companies make the serious mistake of delaying the hiring of a customs broker until the last minute. This carelessness often results in incomplete documentation and costly delays at US-Mexico border crossings.
Customs brokers need sufficient time to review the shipment details, classify goods correctly, and prepare the proper documentation. Last-minute processing increases the risk of errors and can result in shipments being held at the border.
For optimal results, establish relationships with licensed customs brokers at least 2-3 weeks before your first cross-border shipment. This timeframe allows for proper setup in customs systems and thorough review of all documentation requirements.
2. Documentation errors and inconsistencies
Documentation mistakes are one of the most frequent and avoidable cross-border trucking errors. Even minor discrepancies between the commercial invoice requirements, bill of lading, and the customs declarations can cause major delays.
Some of the most common documentation errors include:
- Mismatching product descriptions on different documents
- Incorrect Harmonized System (HS) codes for product classification
- Incomplete or missing country of origin information
- Inaccurate valuation of goods
- Incorrect weight or quantity information
- Failure to include the mandatory complemento carta porte document for domestic transport in Mexico
Implementing a multipoint verification system for all shipping documents can drastically reduce these errors. A second pair of eyes checking all documentation before submission is a simple but effective preventive measure.
3. Shipping before the customs broker alignment
Releasing shipments before your customs broker has confirmed all documentation is complete and correct is a recipe for disaster. This premature action often results in shipments being held at the border indefinitely.
Your broker must verify that all necessary permits, certificates, and international freight documentation are in order before the truck leaves. Skipping this essential step can result in rejected entries and rework.
Establish a clear pre-shipment checklist that includes explicit broker confirmation before authorizing any cross-border movement. This simple process can prevent many of the most common border delays.
4. Not having contacts that provide out-of-hours services
Border issues don’t operate on a 9-to-5 schedule, so not having established after-hours contacts can keep your shipment stranded for days.
Many companies fail to provide emergency contact information for all parties involved in the cross-border process, an extremely costly oversight.
Develop a contact sheet with phone numbers available 24/7 for:
- Your customs broker
- The freight forwarder’s office
- Your in-house logistics team
- Key customer contacts
- Warehouse reception staff
Make sure this information is readily available to drivers and all parties stakeholders involved in the shipment.
5. Underestimating transit time
Unrealistic transit time estimation creates unnecessary pressure and can lead to rushed documentation and poor planning. Many carriers don’t take into account delays at the US-Mexico border crossings.
When planning cross-border shipments, add extra time specifically for:
- Primary customs inspection
- Possible secondary inspections
- Limitations on drivers’ hours of operation
- Seasonal patterns of border congestion
- Current geopolitical factors affecting border operations
A realistic timetable avoids the consequences of rushing shipments across international borders.
6. Driver unfamiliarity with cargo details
Drivers who cannot answer basic questions about their cargo at border crossings raise immediate red flags for customs officials. This lack of knowledge triggers secondary inspections and extended delays.
Make sure drivers are informed about:
- Exact nature of the goods being transported
- Origin and destination details
- Basic information about the consignor and consignee
- Location of all necessary documentation in the vehicle
This preparation helps drivers to answer routine customs questions with confidence, reducing the likelihood of secondary inspections.
7. Inadequate planning for border security measures
Many companies fail to prepare for mandatory security protocols at international borders, resulting in unexpected delays and possible shipment rejections.
Border security measures have intensified in recent years, with more thorough routine inspections. According to Transport Topics, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has collaborated with Texas on a $6.9 million construction project to improve the efficiency of truck processing at the Los Indios border crossing from Mexico, demonstrating the focus on security.
Effective preparation includes:
- Ensuring proper seals on all containers and trailers
- Maintaining accurate cargo manifests
- Participating in trusted trader programs such as CTPAT certification
- Training drivers on security protocols and inspection procedures
- Implement comprehensive pre-loading inspection procedures
These measures reduce delays and show your commitment to safety compliance.
8. Hiring carriers without cross-border certification
Hiring carriers that lack proper cross-border certifications is another common mistake that can completely cripple your international shipments. Many companies discover this problem only when their truck is denied entry at the border.
For cross-border operations, carriers must have specific certifications and registrations that allow them to operate internationally. Without these credentials, your shipment won’t be able to cross the border even if your documentation is correct.
For enhanced efficiency and compliance, many experienced providers in Mexico now offer through-trailer service, avoiding the need for tractor swaps at the border. Before booking any cross-border movement, verify that your carrier has:
- Valid operating authority for international operations
- FAST certification for drivers
- Adequate insurance coverage for international transport
- Current vehicle safety certifications
- Compliance with all environmental regulations in destination countries
At EP Logistics, we maintain comprehensive carrier verification processes to ensure that all your cross-border shipments move with certified transport providers.
9. Linguistic and cultural barriers
Underestimating the impact of language and cultural differences creates significant friction in cross-border operations. Beyond translation issues, there are fundamental differences in business practices and expectations.
With cross-border freight between the US and North American countries reaching $131.6 billion in February 2025, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, effective communication across cultures is imperative.
Common communication challenges include:
- Misunderstandings about delivery expectations
- Different interpretations of contract terms
- Confusion about documentation requirements
- Miscommunication during problem-solving
- Different approaches to business relationships
Working with logistics partners who offer bilingual support and cultural expertise can bridge these gaps effectively. At EP Logistics, we have bilingual experts in international customs brokerage services to eliminate these communication barriers.
10. Failing to adapt to regulatory changes
Trade regulations between the US, Mexico, and Canada are constantly evolving, and if companies don’t constantly update, they will fail to comply with regulations, resulting in rejected and delayed shipments.
Recent tariff threats have created great uncertainty among border trucking companies, with some reporting longer delays at all border crossings in Canada and slowdowns into Mexico. Staying current with these developments is essential for cross-border compliance.
Apply a systematic approach to regulatory monitoring that includes:
- Regular consultations with customs brokers about future changes
- Membership in industry associations that provide regulatory updates
- Subscription to government notification services
- Quarterly compliance reviews of your cross-border processes
- Updating staff on new regulations, especially related to ACI/ACE eManifest systems and International freight documentation
Strategic solutions for successful cross-border trucking
To avoid these common mistakes, it’s necessary to take a strategic approach to cross-border logistics and implement comprehensive solutions. Here are some effective strategies for success in cross-border operations.
Working with experienced cross-border logistics providers
Partnering with specialized cross-border logistics providers brings immediate benefits through their established processes and relationships. We recommend you look for suppliers with:
- Physical presence on both sides of the border
- In-house customs clearance capabilities
- Established relationships with customs officials
- Proven track record of on-time cross-border deliveries
- Comprehensive compliance programs
At EP Logistics, we offer you our extensive cross-border experience between the US and Mexico, with strategic border locations and integrated transportation, customs brokerage, and international freight services.
Technology integration for documentation and tracking
Modern technology solutions can reduce manual and documentation errors to improve visibility throughout the cross-border shipping process.
Effective technology solutions include:
- Electronic document management systems that ensure the consistency of all shipping documents
- Real-time tracking platforms that provide visibility on border crossing status
- Automated customs filing systems that reduce data entry errors
- Digital communication tools that maintain records of all shipping instructions
- Compliance databases that flag potential regulatory issues before shipment
Cross-border trucking checklist
Use this practical checklist to avoid the most common cross-border trucking mistakes:
- Establish relationships with licensed customs brokers at least 2-3 weeks before the first shipment
- Implement multi-point verification for all shipping documents
- Create a pre-shipment approval process requiring broker confirmation
- Develop a 24/7 contact list for all stakeholders
- Build realistic transit timelines with border crossing buffers
- Brief drivers on cargo details and documentation
- Prepare for security protocols and inspections
- Verify carrier cross-border certifications
- Address language and cultural barriers with bilingual support
- Establish a system for monitoring regulatory changes
- Partner with specialized cross-border logistics providers
- Implement technology solutions for documentation and tracking
EP Logistics is your reliable solution for cross-border trucking
Cross-border trucking between the US, Mexico, and Canada presents unique challenges, but the mistakes that lead to border crossing delays and disruptions are largely preventable.
By understanding these common pitfalls and implementing strategic solutions, you can transform your international shipping operations from a source of stress to a competitive advantage.
Contact us at EP Logistics to provide you with the best cross-border logistics service while you focus on growing your business.
