Loaded steel coil on PGT Trucking truck and trailer

A Closer Look at PGT Trucking Cross-Border Shipments

Cross-border shipments are highly complex, and most trucking companies are not equipped to handle international freight. As nearshoring trends continue to ramp up across North America, international transportation solutions are critical to support these new supply chains. PGT Trucking provides safe, reliable and efficient flatbed transportation for cross-border shipments.

PGT Trucking has proven experience moving flatbed loads to and from Mexico and Canada, including a recent bonded shipment from Canada straight through to Mexico. With PGT’s extensive terminal network and carrier partnerships, our customer’s freight was safely secured on one trailer with no transloading required at either international border.

What is a Bonded Shipment?

A bonded or in-bond shipment is cargo that moves through an intermediary country without needing additional customs clearance or duty payment. The customs clearance and taxes will be handled once the shipment reaches its destination. Bonded shipments are ideal for cargo moving from Canada to Mexico where the cargo is only being transported through the United States and not entering the U.S. market. Transportation carriers must have authorization to move bonded freight and understand the requirements of the bond to keep the shipment compliant.

Why Does Experience Matter with Cross-Border Shipments?

Working with customs brokers, bonded shipments, and two international borders requires precision, understanding and operational reach. PGT Trucking’s network of 35 terminals across the U.S. and Mexico help us utilize our strengths to provide through-trailer service for our customers. PGT Trucking Laredo specializes in northbound and southbound freight from Mexico, and PGT Trucking Integrated Fleet Partner, Kitchen Family Trucking, has experience moving loads into Canada. By combining these two terminals, PGT Trucking could efficiently move the trailer from our Detroit, MI, terminal to Canada to pick up the load, transport the load across the U.S.-Canada border, move the load to our Laredo, TX, terminal, and transport the load across the U.S-Mexico border before reaching its final destination in Mexico.

Cross-border shipments also require intense preparation, ensuring that the flatbed truck drivers have the right equipment, driving time and paperwork. Everything must follow the process outlined on the customs documents, and even being too early or too late to the border crossing could significantly disrupt the entire process.

With cross-border shipments, every detail matters.

What is the Benefit of Using One Trailer for Cross-Border Shipments?

By keeping the cargo on the same trailer throughout the entire journey, PGT Trucking reduces the risk of potential cargo damage. The freight will be loaded only once on the trailer and properly secured and tarped. While the load and tarp securement will be checked frequently throughout the shipment, the cargo will not move or be exposed to the elements. In addition to protecting the freight, through-trailer service is also more efficient by eliminating the extra time spent changing trailers. All equipment is satellite tracked, and PGT Trucking will provide routine updates on the shipment status.

Why Work with PGT Trucking for Cross-Border Shipments?

PGT Trucking has more than 30 years’ cross-border transportation experience, offering flatbed service to and from Mexico and Canada. Customers can expect a seamless transition from one border to the next, with one primary point of contact for the move. PGT Trucking’s network of 35 terminals and trusted transportation partners can safely and efficiently move any flatbed load across North America. Contact us today to learn more.