Cross-border shipments involve many moving parts, and any delays or errors in providing key information to customs agencies can prove costly to shippers and carriers alike.
To help manage this added complexity, some carriers have implemented software and systems designed to increase accuracy, reduce paperwork for all parties and minimize rejections at international border crossings.
U.S. Customs requires detailed shipment information, including the full description, weight and piece count — the number of skids, pallets or boxes — as well as the commercial invoice. Any discrepancies in that information can lead to delays, said Lance Dixon, senior vice president for Mexico and Canada at Werner Enterprises.
