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Mexico Tariffs: Freight Forwarding & Customs

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U.S. tariffs on Mexican imports can have a significant impact on customs clearance, supply chain costs, and processing times. Here’s how:

1. Potential Cost Increases Due to Tariffs

  • The U.S. and Mexico operate under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), which generally allows tariff-free trade if goods meet Rules of Origin requirements.

  • However, if tariffs are imposed (e.g., due to trade disputes or policy changes), importers may see higher duty costs on affected goods.

2. Stricter Customs Compliance & Delays

  • More thorough inspections at the border can slow down clearance times, especially for industries like automotive, agriculture, and electronics.

  • USMCA documentation (such as a Certificate of Origin) is crucial to qualify for duty-free treatment; missing paperwork can result in penalties or tariff charges.

3. Changes in Product Classification & Rules of Origin

  • U.S. Customs may reclassify goods or scrutinize whether they meet USMCA’s origin rules (especially in auto manufacturing, where 75% of parts must be North American-made).

  • If a product doesn't meet the regional value content (RVC) threshold, it could lose tariff exemptions and be subject to duties.

4. Increased Bond & Duty Costs

  • If tariffs are imposed, importers may need a higher customs bond due to increased shipment values.

  • Higher duties mean higher landed costs, which can affect pricing and profitability.

5. Impact on Just-in-Time (JIT) Supply Chains

  • Many U.S. manufacturers, especially in the automotive and electronics industries, rely on JIT manufacturing with parts coming daily from Mexico.

  • If tariffs or customs delays disrupt shipments, businesses may face production slowdowns or increased warehousing costs.

How to Minimize Customs Issues & Tariff Risks

Ensure USMCA compliance – Verify your products meet Rules of Origin to maintain duty-free status.✅ Work with a customs broker – They can help navigate tariff changes and avoid delays.✅ Consider alternative suppliers – If tariffs increase, explore sourcing from non-tariffed countries.✅ Use bonded warehouses or FTZs – This can defer duty payments and provide cost savings.✅ Plan for longer lead times – Factor in potential border delays when managing inventory.


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