Trade between Mexico and the United States has been characterized by significant activity in ground transportation, particularly through heavy-duty freight trucks. This mode of transportation is essential to the flow of goods between both countries, generating significant figures in terms of volume and value.

Percentage of Exports and Imports by Ground Transportation

In 2023, approximately 80% of Mexican exports were destined for the United States, with ground transportation being the primary mode used. This percentage remained stable in 2024, highlighting the importance of cross-border trade routes between the two countries.

Freight Volumes and Comparative Growth: 2023 vs. 2024

In 2023, Mexican exports to the United States experienced a slight setback, with a 0.9% decrease in the value of total imports from January to September compared to the same period in 2022. However, in 2024, Mexican exports increased by 11.2% in October, reaching a record monthly value. Automobile exports, a key sector, grew by 6.1%, while non-automotive manufacturing exports expanded by 17.6%. 

Main Customs Facilities and Cross-Border Traffic Volume

Mexico has 19 land customs facilities along its northern border, with the following standing out:

• Nuevo Laredo Customs, Tamaulipas: One of the most important border crossings, accounting for more than 20% of trade operations with the United States. More than 3,000 trucks and 1,500 railcars cross through this customs facility every day.
• Ciudad Juárez Customs, Chihuahua: Accounts for 9.61% of the country's trade operations.
  

Main Types of Goods

The main categories of Mexican exports to the United States in 2023 included:

• Motor vehicles, tractors, and other land vehicles: Approximately $130.296 billion USD.
• Vehicle parts and accessories: Among the most frequently handled products at the Nuevo Laredo customs facility.

Ground Transportation Compared to Other Modes

Truck transportation is the predominant mode of trade between Mexico and the United States due to geographic proximity and its cost and delivery-time efficiency. Although maritime and air transportation also play important roles, particularly for bulky or high-value goods, ground transportation remains the backbone of bilateral trade.

Conclusion

Ground transportation, particularly through heavy-duty freight trucks, is vital to the trade relationship between Mexico and the United States. Land customs facilities, such as the one in Nuevo Laredo, play a crucial role in the movement of goods, facilitating economic exchange between both nations.

Sources:

Openai / Statista / T21 / CH Robinson / Aspel / Estrategia Aduanera / Mundi