strategicinsight
BY TOBY GOOLEY, MANAGING EDITOR
7steps to speedier border crossings
Border crossings can be time-consuming and unpredictable.
Here are some tips on how to minimize delays.
AT A TIME WHEN VIRTUALLY ALL CUSTOMS INFORmation is transmitted electronically and free trade agreements abound, you might assume that crossing international borders would be a piece of cake. For the most part, it is
easier than it was in the past, but the act of bringing goods
out of one country and into another continues to be a source
of delays and headaches for international traders everywhere.
There are dozens of reasons why border crossings continue
to bedevil importers and exporters. Sometimes, the problems
are caused by errors or inconsistencies in documentation.
Other times, delays are due to security concerns, poor timing,
or even inadequate packaging, to name but a few possibilities.
Although each company’s situation is unique, there are
some steps everyone can take to minimize the risk of border crossing delays. Here are just a few tips, with an emphasis on the U.S. border with Mexico.
1. Know when to go. International trade may take
place 24/7, but that doesn’t mean border crossings are
staffed around the clock. For that reason, it’s wise to find
out when inspection stations will be open. Most of the U.S.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel at the
land borders are union members and their hours are strict-
ly scheduled, notes Arnold Maltz, associate professor, sup-
ply chain, at Arizona State University. Even if a crossing is
staffed around the clock, there may be just one lane open at
off hours. “If you don’t go when CBP is going to be staffing
all of the booths at a crossing, you’re kidding yourself if you
think you’re going to avoid congestion,” he says.
2. Watch your weight. Container and trailer weights
that may be acceptable in one country may not be allowed
in another. Inbound containers that are too heavy for over-
