The Ultimate Cross-Border Checklist for Truck Drivers
Cross-border shipping is a huge part of the transportation industry, with many carriers frequently moving between the United States, Mexico, and Canada. If you’re a truck driver preparing to transport a cross-border load, it’s important to come prepared; otherwise, you could be faced with long delays and steep fees. In this blog, we’ll discuss the basics of what you need to know before you go!
Ensure You Have the Correct Documentation for Cross-Border Shipping
In order to comply with customs laws, cross-border loads require additional documentation with information about what the shipment contains, where it’s from, and where it’s going. Here are some of the most important documents you might need:
- Driver Documents:
- CDL
- Passport/Enhanced Driver’s License (Canada)
- FAST (Free and Secure Trade) Card (if applicable)
- Cargo Documents (learn more about these here):
- BOL (Bill of Lading)
- Certificate of Origin
- Commercial Invoice
- Shipper’s Letter of Instruction
- Packing List
- Customs and Compliance Documents:
- USMCA Trade Agreement documentation (if applicable)
- ACE (Automated Commercial Environment) Manifest for U.S.
- ACI (Advance Commercial Information) for Canada
Required documentation may change depending on your shipment, and which countries the load will be travelling through. Some documents can also be submitted electronically before you reach a crossing point, speeding up the customs process. Consult your load planner or driver manager to ensure that you have everything you need ahead of time.
Inspect Your Vehicle Before Departure
When you’re trying to cross into another country, the last thing you want to deal with is truck problems. When you’re completing your standard pre-trip inspection, make sure to check some things extra carefully:
Plan Your Route Effectively
To ensure you’re completing your shipment as efficiently as possible, take the time to review your load plan before you go.
- Choose the best crossing point: There are many places across the Canadian and Mexican borders to move between countries, but not all are created equal. Some may not have the infrastructure to handle certain specialized loads, are closed for construction, or might be busier at different times of the year. Your closest crossing may not be the most efficient – double check before you start driving.
- Account for traffic, road closures, and weather: Monitor real-time traffic reports on your route, and especially in the area around the crossing point. Also, make sure your route is clear of any construction or weather-related closures. If necessary, have an alternative route ready in case of any steep delays.
- See if you qualify for expedited lanes: The FAST (Free and Secure Trade) program can speed up the customs process for trusted, pre-approved carriers who adhere to CTPAT standards and are transporting low-risk freight. This can give you access to dedicated FAST lanes at some crossing points, reduced paperwork, and priority processing.
What if You Experience a Delay in the Customs Process?
If you take the proper steps to prepare for the customs process, you have a high chance of avoiding any delays. However, there’s always a possibility that you could be flagged for additional inspections or experience long lines at a crossing point. Here’s what to do if you’re facing delays at a border crossing.
- Inform your dispatcher: Communication is key to managing any slowdowns. The first thing you should do when you’re experiencing delays is to notify your dispatcher of the situation. They may be able to provide suggestions on how to resolve the problem and can work with the customer on arranging a new delivery time if needed.
- Continue to monitor border congestion: Use a real-time traffic tool to get an estimate of how long you’ll be waiting if that’s the source of the delay. Pass this along to your dispatcher and customer so they can make any necessary arrangements on their end.
- Keep extra copies of documents: If the delay is caused by paperwork issues or lost documents, having a copy of all necessary documentation in your truck can expedite the process of resolving the problem.
Cross-border shipping can seem intimidating, but if you’re prepared, the process can be seamless and a unique experience for truckers. Melton Truck Lines has been a leader in cross-border shipping for over 45 years, and our international shipping teams in the United States and Mexico help facilitate efficient, delay-free shipments across the border. To learn more about driving for Melton, visit our flatbed trucking jobs page.