North American Freight Management
Simplify shipping across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico with expert support from FreightCenter.
Whether you're moving freight between states or across borders, we streamline the entire freight management process so your goods arrive securely, on time, and within budget.
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North American Freight Management
Shipping across borders involves complexities not found in domestic freight. Customs clearance, import/export documentation, and carrier coordination are crucial. Tariffs, duties, and agreements like the USMCA affect freight movement in North America. An effective freight management strategy ensures every stage of the journey—from pickup to delivery—is managed with clear communication among all parties.
For businesses that regularly ship across North America, partnering with a freight management provider like FreightCenter can simplify the entire process. We combine advanced technology, extensive experience, and a robust carrier network to give you complete visibility and control over your supply chain. Whether you’re expanding into new markets or optimizing your current operations, we help you move freight more efficiently, more quickly, and with fewer hassles.
Thousands of businesses trust FreightCenter to move their freight faster, smarter, and cheaper! From unbeatable rates to top-notch service, our customers are raving about their shipping success.
See why they keep coming back!
Award-Winning Service, Trusted by Shippers Everywhere!
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers
- 2021 & 2018 Supply & Demand Chain Executives’ Pros to Know: Matthew Brosious
- 2020 & 2019 Top Food Logistics’ 3PL & Cold Storage Provider Award
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
- 2020 & 2017 Food Logistics’ Champions: Rock Stars of the Supply Chain
- 2020 Best of Palm Harbor Awards for Local Businesses
- 2017 Green Supply Chain Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive
- 2017 Tampa Bay Business Journal Heroes at Work
- 2016, 2015, & 2012 Food Logistics Top 100 Software and Technology Providers
- 2013 Tampa Bay Business 100 by Tampa Bay Business Journal
- 2013 Top 100 Great Supply Chain Partners by SupplyChainBrain
- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
- 2013, 2011, & 2010 Diversity Business Top Businesses
Why Choose FreightCenter for North American Freight Management?
Expertise Across the Continent: FreightCenter has over two decades of experience helping businesses of all sizes ship freight throughout the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. We specialize in solving cross-border challenges and removing the stress from international shipping.
Carrier Access Without the Hassle: Our extensive network includes top-rated carriers in all three countries. This means you get competitive rates, real-time tracking, and reliable transit times—without having to vet and manage dozens of carriers yourself.
Customs and Compliance Assistance: We assist with the documentation and compliance processes required for international freight shipments, including customs paperwork, commercial invoices, and NAFTA/USMCA-related forms.
Personalized Logistics Support: Every shipment is different. That’s why we assign you a freight expert who understands your unique needs, offers route optimization, and ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
How Freight Management in North America Works
In logistics, “North America” refers to the three major countries of the region: the United States, Canada, and Mexico (Central America and the Caribbean islands are considered their own separate region). All three countries are closely knit trading partners, utilizing cross-border shipping methods to import and export goods across their borders.
If you are planning on increasing your efficiency in cross-border shipping, then your business must be able to handle the following:
- Gathering the correct paperwork for customs clearance
- Obtaining freight insurance in every country you will be trading in
- Clearing customs without issue
- Determining necessary security measures for protecting your freight
- Understanding international regulations and laws for carriers in every country
If you are uncertain that your team can accomplish these tasks independently, consider using a 3PL like FreightCenter to help manage your freight for North American shipping. With FreightCenter, you get a dedicated logistics partner who understands the complexities of cross-border freight and has the tools to simplify the process, whether you’re shipping one pallet or a full truckload.
Freight management in North America involves determining the most suitable transportation methods for your cross-border shipments. There are quite a few options available depending on how quickly, efficiently, and carefully you wish to move your freight. Here are some of the transportation methods most effective for your cross-border shipping needs:
Truckload shipping is a popular method for cross-border freight transportation, utilizing two approaches: through-trailer, where freight remains in the same trailer during the border crossing (although the driver changes), and transloading, where goods are transferred between containers. FreightCenter specializes in both methods, ensuring faster and safer border crossings compared to traditional carriers.
Intermodal shipping is a popular method for transporting freight across borders, utilizing multiple transportation modes that typically combine rail and truck transport. This approach optimizes routes and reduces fuel consumption. FreightCenter organizes intermodal shipments to minimize transit times and lower costs.
While not as popular as truckload or intermodal shipping, air freight is one of the fastest ways to get goods across the border. This option is best suited for urgent or high-value goods that require prompt delivery to their destination. FreightCenter arranges next-day or 2-day delivery services within North America, utilizing air freight shipping to get your shipment to its destination right away.
For long-distance shipments across borders, ocean freight shipping is the best way to go. It is one of the most secure ways of transporting goods across the globe, but it also takes longer to sail and then get past customs clearance. FreightCenter can help ensure you get the best price for your shipment, while also supporting you through customs regulations and paperwork.
Challenges and Benefits of North American Freight Management
Managing freight within North America can be difficult. There are many factors to consider and issues to prevent. Some of the challenges shippers face regarding North American freight management include:
Logistical issues: Problems such as improper packaging, incorrect locations, delays, and losses are common regardless of the shipping method. For imports and exports, however, these issues are exacerbated by the distance and costs associated with international shipping.
Tariffs and duties: You may not be able to pay tariffs and duties entirely by yourself, as they can be very high depending on where you are importing/exporting. If you pass the costs to the consumer, on the other hand, you face customer dissatisfaction and low sales.
Currency fluctuation: Each country’s currency isn’t stagnant; its value rises and falls like jolts of lightning. Businesses must regularly monitor currency rates and prepare for unexpected fluctuations and market spikes.
Custom regulations: Importers and exporters must comply with trade laws and regulations in every country where they are conducting business. Failing to do so carries strict penalties, including fines and jail time.
Custom delays: Goods entering and exiting the country are subject to inspection for compliance and damage assessment. This can take a while, leading to delivery delays that could be detrimental to your business’s production and distribution schedules.
Geopolitical and security concerns: Political and social issues impact global trade. Depending on the nature of the conflict, shipping may be disrupted. Theft and fraud are also significant issues that shippers must be prepared for when engaging in cross-border shipping.
While these issues require careful attention and preparation, the efforts will be worth it in the long run. Stepping out of domestic shipping and engaging in cross-border shipping for North American freight management helps your business in the following ways:
- You will reach new markets beyond just your domestic audience. You can attract international customers who will purchase your products out of brand loyalty, regardless of additional costs resulting from tariffs and fees.
- You will diversify your product availability. Importing products from neighboring countries will expand your inventory and introduce your audience to goods they may be interested in, ultimately increasing your sales.
- You will improve your supply chain management. By expanding your freight network to other countries in North America, you can grow your supply chain as well, making it more efficient and adaptable to unexpected events.
- You will scale your business internationally. Investing in cross-border shipping is a step forward towards scaling your business from a domestic-only business to a global corporation that contributes to the worldwide economy.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Ship Throughout North America with FreightCenter!
Managing freight across North American borders takes more than just booking a truck. It requires the right mix of tools, expertise, and carrier access to keep things moving smoothly. FreightCenter offers essential services that make cross-border shipping easier and more efficient for businesses of all sizes:
- Customs Documentation Assistance: We help ensure all required cross-border paperwork is accurate and complete.
- Real-Time Tracking: Stay informed with up-to-date shipment visibility from pickup to delivery.
- Carrier Matching: Access a vetted network of cross-border carriers in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
- Temperature-Controlled & Specialized Freight Options: Perfect for perishable or sensitive goods.
- Dedicated Logistics Support: Work one-on-one with a shipping expert who understands your needs.
Need help getting started? Give us a call at (800) 716-7608 or use our free online freight quoting tool to compare rates and book your North American shipment with confidence. FreightCenter makes cross-border freight management easy, affordable, and reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions about North American Freight Management
Q. What is North American freight management?
North American freight management is the end-to-end coordination of shipping goods across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It includes everything from planning the mode of transportation to preparing customs documentation and ensuring compliance with each country’s regulations. FreightCenter streamlines this process by providing integrated logistics solutions, expert guidance, and access to cross-border carriers, facilitating the efficient and reliable movement of freight.
Q. Can I ship freight from Mexico to Canada through the U.S.?
Q. Does FreightCenter help with customs documents?
Yes, FreightCenter assists with customs documentation for shipments to and from Canada and Mexico. This includes preparing commercial invoices, USMCA certificates (formerly NAFTA), bills of lading, and other forms required for customs clearance. Our team ensures all documentation is accurate to reduce delays at the border.
Q. What modes of transportation are available for North American shipping?
The most common transportation modes for North American freight include full truckload (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL), intermodal (a combination of rail and truck), and air freight. The best mode depends on your shipment’s size, urgency, and destination. FreightCenter helps you select the most cost-effective and efficient mode for each cross-border shipment.
Q. How long does cross-border shipping usually take?
Transit times vary depending on the origin, destination, and type of freight service. For example, LTL shipments between the U.S. and Canada often take 3–7 business days, while shipments to or from Mexico may take a few days longer due to customs processes. FreightCenter provides accurate transit time estimates when quoting and booking your shipment.
Q. Do I need a customs broker to ship to Canada or Mexico?
In most cases, yes. A licensed customs broker is required to handle the clearance process at international borders. FreightCenter can coordinate with your broker or refer you to trusted partners who specialize in cross-border compliance.
Q. Can I track my shipment in real-time?
Yes. FreightCenter offers real-time tracking through our online platform, providing you with visibility into every stage of your shipment’s journey. You’ll receive tracking updates, estimated delivery times, and alerts if delays occur.
Q. Are there size or weight limits for cross-border freight?
Each country and carrier has different rules for allowable freight dimensions and weight. Oversized or overweight shipments may require special permits or trailer types. FreightCenter helps you understand and comply with these limits by matching your freight with the right equipment and carriers.
Q. Can I ship temperature-sensitive goods across borders?
Yes, you can ship refrigerated or temperature-sensitive freight between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. FreightCenter offers reefer and climate-controlled shipping options to ensure your perishable goods are transported under the right conditions.
Q. Do you provide insurance for international shipments?
Yes, FreightCenter offers third-party freight insurance for cross-border shipments. Insurance is critical when shipping high-value or fragile items internationally. Our logistics experts can help you select the most suitable coverage for your freight.
Q. What documentation is needed to ship between the U.S. and Mexico?
Shipping between the U.S. and Mexico typically requires a commercial invoice, a bill of lading (BOL), and a USMCA certificate of origin. Additionally, a customs broker must be involved to ensure compliance with each country’s import and export laws. FreightCenter walks you through the documentation process to help avoid border delays.
Q. What is the cost of North American freight shipping?
The cost of freight shipping in North America depends on several factors, including shipment weight, dimensions, distance, freight class, and mode of transport. Customs fees and duties may also apply to cross-border shipments. FreightCenter’s quoting tool gives you instant, side-by-side rate comparisons from top carriers so you can choose the best option for your budget.
Q. Do you offer support for recurring shipments?
Absolutely. FreightCenter works with businesses that ship regularly across North America. Through our partnership with our parent company, BlueGrace Logistics, we offer managed logistics services, negotiated carrier rates, and dedicated account managers to streamline recurring freight operations.
Q. How does FreightCenter vet cross-border carriers?
We evaluate our carrier network based on performance, compliance history, safety records, and cross-border experience. Only qualified, FMCSA-compliant carriers with a proven track record are used for North American freight management. This ensures that your freight is in good hands every step of the way.
Q. How do I get started with a cross-border shipment?
Getting started is easy. You can either call one of our logistics experts for personalized help at (800) 716-7608 or use our free online quoting tool to compare rates and services instantly. From there, FreightCenter helps you schedule pickup, prepare the necessary documentation, and track your shipment’s progress until it arrives safely.
Preparing Your Business for Cross-Border Freight Success
Know Your Paperwork
Incomplete or inaccurate documentation is one of the top causes of cross-border shipping delays. Ensure your team understands the key forms, such as commercial invoices and USMCA certificates, and how to complete them accurately. FreightCenter offers guidance to help you avoid common mistakes before they happen.
Optimize Packaging for Border Crossings
Packaging standards differ by country and carrier. Reinforced pallets, clear labeling, and itemized packing lists help ensure that your freight is protected and border inspections go smoothly. Ask your FreightCenter rep about packaging best practices for your specific freight type.
Train Your Team on Cross-Border Workflow
Efficient North American freight management starts with internal alignment. Ensure your warehouse, fulfillment, and administrative teams are aware of the specific requirements for shipping to or from Canada and Mexico. FreightCenter can help your staff understand timelines, responsibilities, and how to track shipments along the way.
