Overview
Trucking companies that move freight across international borders with Canada and Mexico face a unique set of operational issues. Not only must they comply with U.S. regulatory requirements, but they must also be familiar and comply with the transportation, customs and immigration and a number of other requirements established by countries where they do business.
ATA's Position
ATA works to ensure that U.S. motor carriers face a level playing field when operating in international markets. ATA works to increase the efficiency of cross-border operations for motor carriers while maintaining a high level of safety and security.
Trade Facilitation
Cross-Border processing of cargo, commercial equipment and drivers must occur in a seamless manner at ports of entry to expedite the transportation of international trade. Such processes must be undertaken in a transparent and effective manner, ensuring that security, safety, and efficiency are provided equal consideration. Improving cross-border efficiency at U.S. land borders is essential considering USMCA's growing surface trade volumes are transported primarily by truck.
Customs and Data Modernization
U.S., Canadian and Mexican government agencies require support in automating border processes by replacing former paper-based requirements with electronic data interchange. In addition to Customs agencies, all government agencies with an interest in border transactions must change from paper to electronic transactions.
North American Regulatory Harmonization
Government officials in all three North American countries must harmonize requirements for equipment, people, security, and other regulations to facilitate the transportation of freight across our international borders.
Border Infrastructure and User Fees
Federal and state government agencies must develop adequate infrastructure in and around international land-borders to accommodate the growing volumes of trade within the USMCA region. Such infrastructure includes physical projects as well as technology improvements.
Agencies must also design user-fees, for infrastructure and for inspections, based on sound policies that are related to cross-border operations at the various types of ports of entry.
Equipment and Driver Operations
We seek to improve the efficiency for the utilization of North American-based equipment and drivers for the transportation of freight throughout the region.