Douglas, AZ ↔ Agua Prieta, SON

What does FAST certification mean for a US-Mexico carrier?

FAST (Free and Secure Trade) is a CBP/SAT joint program that pre-clears low-risk drivers and shipments for expedited border processing. FAST-certified carriers move through dedicated FAST lanes at the border, typically clearing in minutes rather than hours.

What's the difference between C-TPAT and FAST?

C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) is the company-level supply-chain security certification on the US side. FAST is the driver-and-shipment-level expedited processing program. Carriers running US-Mexico freight typically pursue both: C-TPAT for the company and FAST for individual drivers.

Do I need bilingual dispatch for US-Mexico freight?

Strongly recommended. Mexican customs (SAT) documentation, broker communication, and any in-country exception handling are conducted in Spanish. Carriers without bilingual dispatch tend to incur delays at border holds and during pedimento corrections.

What's a transfer carrier vs a through carrier?

A transfer carrier hands freight off at the border to a separate Mexican carrier for the in-country leg. A through carrier (FMCSA-authorized OR with a Mexican subsidiary) hauls the entire route. Through service typically reduces transit time and damage but costs more per mile.