Cross-border shipping is an intimidating process, especially for newcomers. There’s so much to keep track of, and you need to do everything right to ensure your goods get to where they need to be.
That’s why cross-border shipping is a common topic on our blog — we want to make sure you have everything you need for successful freight shipping to Mexico. In this post, we’re looking at some of the common shipping mistakes businesses make when sending freight to Mexico and how you can avoid them.
Here are some of the most common cross-border shipping mistakes we see:
Getting your goods across the border requires specific documents, and they must be filled out correctly. Shippers need a comprehensive understanding of all the required documents, including:
You may also need to arrange the correct visa if you are using Mexican drivers.
Incorrect or missing documentation can result in your goods being held at the border. Partnering with an experienced cross-border shipping professional can help ensure all your documentation is correct, avoiding issues when your goods reach the border.
While it would be nice to send your goods on their way and have nothing go wrong, that’s not always the case. Staying in contact with your carrier or customs broker is essential to help ensure your shipment runs as planned. If you struggle to communicate with key your partners, you might miss out on key updates during your freight’s journey.
To improve communication efforts, make sure to use reliable communication tools to ensure you can keep in contact with your carrier. Also, make sure to plan and clarify all shipment details, including schedules, documents, and procedures, before departure.
While you want to impress your clients with quick shipping times, you still need to be realistic. Border inspections and customs clearance can take time, especially during peak times. Failing to take these stoppages into account can result in incorrect estimates and unhappy customers.
That’s why it’s important to research typical border delay timeframes and build these into your delivery estimates. Partnering with carriers who have plenty of cross-border experience can help.
There are many different costs involved in transporting goods across the border. Failing to understand and calculate them correctly can result in goods being held by customs and unexpected expenses that can drain your budget.
You should be researching any potential charges before sending out your shipments to avoid delays and additional charges. These fees can change, so if you haven’t sent freight to Mexico in a while, it’s good practice to double-check any taxes, duties, and tariffs you might face.
Business practices in Mexico can be very different from those in the US, so it’s important to consider these nuances when working with Mexican partners. Misunderstandings may cause delays or disrupt operations.
Hiring bilingual staff with expertise in cross-border shipping can help bridge communication gaps and enhance your understanding of cultural norms. Additionally, partnering with a logistics company experienced in Mexico-US trade ensures smoother deliveries and stronger relationships with local partners.
Selecting the wrong shipping method can complicate cross-border shipping between the US and Mexico, leading to unexpected costs, delays, or logistical hurdles. Each shipment has unique requirements, and the shipping method you choose should align with factors like delivery timelines, cargo type, and budget.
To avoid these issues, take time to evaluate the advantages and limitations of various cross-border shipping options. By understanding your shipment's specific needs and planning accordingly, you can minimize risks and ensure a smoother, more cost-effective shipping process.
Cross-border shipping mistakes are common because of the complexities involved, but they don’t have to derail your operations. By partnering with an experienced logistics provider like DTS, you can avoid these pitfalls and help ensure your freight arrives on time and without surprises.
We offer a full range of international shipping solutions tailored to your needs, backed by deep expertise in cross-border logistics. Ready to simplify your shipping process? Contact us today for a quote or explore our services to see how we can help your business thrive.
Whether you're a company looking to improve one facet of your supply chain, your entire supply chain, or simply looking for a transportation and logistics consultation, we can help.
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