The 5 Biggest Cross-Border Freight Shipping Mistakes (Avoid These)

Cross-border freight shipping can be complex.

Mistakes like incorrect paperwork and not working closely with your customs partner can slow your deliveries and raise costs.

1. Waiting Too Long to Establish a Customs Broker

Delaying your customs broker setup stops shipments.

Waiting too long to establish a customs broker can cause delays, as it can take weeks.

Customs brokers need detailed knowledge of your shipping process, and without a broker, your cargo may be held up at customs clearance.

Always start the process early to ensure smooth international shipping.

2. The Bill of Lading and Commercial Invoice Does not Match Exactly

A mismatch between the bill of lading and the commercial invoice can halt your shipment.

Customs require exact information to clear goods; errors can lead to delays and extra costs.

For Mexico shipments, you must include the complementary Carta Porte document.

Ensure all details, like quantities and values, align perfectly.

Accurate bills of lading and invoices support smooth customs clearance.

Double-check your documents to avoid regulatory compliance issues.

Proper documentation enhances your supply chain management and reduces transportation surprises.

3. Shipping Before You’re in 100% Alignment With the Customs Broker

Shipping before you fully align with your customs broker can cause major delays.

Unresolved issues may lead to missing or incorrect paperwork, slowing down your shipment at the border.

For first-time shipments, schedule a conference call with your broker.

Ensure all documents, like the bill of lading and commercial invoice, match exactly.

Clear communication prevents mistakes and keeps your supply chain moving smoothly.

Use reliable partners like Waggon to handle your cross-border shipping needs effectively.

4. Not Confirming After-Hours Contact Information

Missing after-hours contact information can halt your supply chain.

Quick access to third-party logistics reps helps resolve issues swiftly.

Delays during weekends increase expenses and disrupt transit time.

Ensure your logistical support team, like Waggon, is reachable 24/7 to maintain reliability.

5. Misjudging Transit Times

Misjudging transit times disrupts supply chains.

Trucks crossing the U.S. often wait 2 to 5 hours at the border, and deliveries might not cross the border the same day they are picked up.

These delays affect your inventory and delivery schedules.

Account for wait times to avoid surcharges and ensure smooth operations.

Experience the efficiency of Waggon Cross-border freight Services.

We deliver your freight on time, every time — Contact us today to ensure your shipping needs are met with precision and reliability.

Partner with a skilled freight team to keep your shipments on track.

The best way to avoid mistakes? Work with an experienced cross-border freight shipping team.

An experienced cross-border freight shipping team ensures your bills of lading and commercial invoices match perfectly.

Waggon navigates USMCA regulations and handles certificates of origin and other essential documents.

Accurate paperwork prevents shipment delays and fines, keeping your dairy, milk production, or other goods moving smoothly.

Estimating duties and taxes correctly avoids unexpected costs, protecting your bottom line.

Waggon excels in effective communication, keeping all parties informed throughout the shipping process.

We provide a full range of cross-border shipping services designed to meet the unique needs of your business.

Choose Waggon for dependable logistics solutions that ensure your freight moves seamlessly across borders and beyond.