Nearshoring growth collides with tightening US-Mexico trucking capacity

SAN DIEGO — Industry executives have warned that nearshoring growth is colliding with tightening US-Mexico trucking capacity, presenting challenges for freight transportation between the two countries. The issues were discussed at Trimble Insight 2026 in San Diego, where experts from Transport Capacity Services, customs brokerage, and cargo security technology gathered to discuss the topic.

Ben Enriquez, from Transport Capacity Services, noted that nearshoring has continued to grow despite tariffs and geopolitical uncertainty. He pointed to the expansion of manufacturing plants and expansions as evidence, stating that nearshoring is a reality. However, Enriquez also highlighted the challenges facing cross-border drivers, including a shrinking pool of drivers available for cross-border shipments due to stricter enforcement of customs regulations and English-language requirements.

Carime Duck, a licensed customs broker and president of the San Diego Customs Broker Association, observed that capacity crunch is particularly evident in Southern California during the fall peak shipping season. Drivers' availability has become more difficult, and trucking rates are increasing, driven by rising fuel expenses and longer payment periods before businesses receive funds from customers. Duck also expressed concern about increased security vulnerabilities as a result of reduced trucking capacity.

Ricardo Malacara, sales director at cargo-security technology provider Overhaul, emphasized that reduced trucking capacity can create security risks, causing delays and longer handoffs that increase the likelihood of theft or other security breaches. He stressed that companies expanding production in Mexico must now consider trucking capacity, customs compliance, and cargo security as essential components of their nearshoring strategy.