C.H. Robinson launches cross-border freight service between Canada, U.S. and Mexico

C.H. Robinson has unveiled a new cross-border freight service that it says can save shippers up to 40 per cent and provide visibility of shipments up to 48 hours earlier.

The company said the service consolidates less-than-truckload freight in Mexico, oversees customs clearance and bonded warehousing, and uses artificial intelligence to optimize routing across the United States and Canada.

“Here’s a scenario we see all the time,” said Jay Cornmesser, vice-president for Mexico cross-border services. “Say you’re a company that assembles vehicle seats in the United States, and you’re importing foam, fabric, a wiring harness, a motor and switches from five different suppliers in Mexico. Those are coming to the border on five different trucks, five different transfer carriers are taking the loads across, and only then your freight might be consolidated for delivery to your warehouses or plants. You’re unnecessarily paying for too many trucks and unnecessarily paying for unused space on each truck.”

The company said its proprietary Optimizer technology uses real-time data to reduce costs, maximize trailer use and improve efficiency.

“At a time when supply chains are strained by new and higher tariffs, our new cross-border consolidation service can provide some relief,” said Ben Bidwell, senior director for customs.

“With so many industries under intense economic pressure right now, this is exactly the time to look at your supply chain holistically and get the benefits of these interconnected solutions,” added Michael Castagnetto, president of North American Surface Transportation.