Whether you’re shipping parcels daily or managing a national distribution network, here’s how zone skipping can revolutionize your logistics.

What Is Zone Skipping?

Zone skipping is a shipping strategy where packages are consolidated and transported over long distances in bulk—usually via freight or line-haul services—before being entered into a carrier’s parcel network closer to the final delivery zone.

Instead of shipping each package individually through every zone (and paying for each one), you “skip” multiple zones by injecting packages closer to their destination.

Example:

Instead of shipping 500 individual packages from Toronto to various locations in South Carolina (and paying for cross-border shipping per package), you can consolidate those shipments, move them via truckload or LTL freight to Sumter, SC, and hand them off to a local carrier for final delivery.

Top Benefits of Zone Skip Solutions for Shippers

1 – Minimized Freight Handling

Zone skipping reduces touchpoints by consolidating shipments closer to the final destination, resulting in lower damage rates and some of the industry’s best claims ratios. Fewer handoffs mean fewer opportunities for loss, delay, or product damage—helping protect your brand and bottom line. Pro tip: When looking for an LTL carrier, prioritize the carrier with the lowest claims ratio to protect your inventory.

2 – Optimized Shipping Costs

By bypassing multiple zones, shippers can achieve significant cost savings without compromising transit times or delivery speed. Zone skipping enables more efficient routing, allowing businesses to scale cost-effectively while meeting customer expectations.

3 – Faster Delivery Times

By injecting packages directly into destination regions, businesses eliminate intermediate processing steps and reduce transit times. This is

4 – Improved Inventory and Fulfillment Strategy

Zone skipping aligns perfectly with distributed fulfillment centers. By staging inventory in key regions and bulk-shipping orders close to final destinations, companies can optimize both inventory and shipping strategies.

5 – Lower Carbon Footprint

By consolidating shipments and reducing touchpoints, zone skipping can also result in more sustainable shipping practices—fewer trucks on the road, less packaging waste, and more efficient last-mile delivery.

When Should You Use Zone Skipping?

Zone skipping isn’t for every shipment—but it’s perfect for:

• High-volume parcel shippers
• National or regional delivery campaigns
• Time-sensitive promotions or launches
• Businesses with predictable shipping lanes

If your business ships at scale across multiple zones, especially during peak seasons, zone skip solutions can dramatically improve cost-efficiency and delivery reliability.

How to Implement Zone Skipping in Your Supply Chain

Implementing a zone skip strategy involves:

1. Analyze shipping patterns and volume
2. Identify optimal consolidation points
3. Partner with the right LTL provider

Final Thoughts: Zone Skipping Is a Game-Changer for Smart Shippers

Zone skipping is more than a cost-cutting tactic—it’s a modern logistics strategy that supports speed, savings, and scalability. With the right planning and partners, shippers can unlock substantial benefits across their entire fulfillment network.

If you’re looking to optimize your shipping strategy, reduce costs, and improve delivery performance, now’s the time to explore zone skip solutions.

Want to learn more about how zone skipping fits into your logistics strategy?
Contact us today for a free shipping analysis and see how much you could save.

In this article, we’ll explore what LTL shipping is, how it works, and why incorporating it into your logistics strategy can significantly enhance your supply chain efficiency.

What Is LTL Shipping?

LTL shipping is a freight transportation option where multiple shippers share space on the same truck. Each shipper pays only for the portion of the truck that their freight occupies, making LTL ideal for smaller shipments that don’t require a full truckload.

Unlike FTL (full-truckload), which dedicates an entire trailer to a single shipment, LTL allows for greater flexibility, cost-sharing, and frequency in delivery—all of which are essential for modern businesses with dynamic inventory needs.

The Role of LTL in Supply Chain Optimization

Incorporating LTL freight into your broader supply chain strategy can result in several key benefits:

1. Cost Efficiency

LTL enables businesses to avoid paying for unused trailer space, leading to significant cost savings, especially for small-to-medium-sized shipments. This cost efficiency becomes even more impactful when shipping frequency is high or routes are spread across various geographic areas.

2. Improved Flexibility and Responsiveness

Today’s markets demand speed and adaptability. LTL offers more frequent pickup and delivery options, enabling companies to respond quickly to changes in demand without overcommitting to large inventory purchases or storage costs.

3. Enhanced Inventory Management

Using LTL can lead to more precise and efficient inventory management. With smaller, more frequent shipments, companies can operate on a just-in-time model, reducing warehousing needs and minimizing excess inventory.

4. Sustainability and Reduced Carbon Footprint

LTL contributes to more sustainable logistics by consolidating shipments and maximizing trailer capacity. This means fewer trucks on the road, lower fuel usage, and a reduced carbon footprint—all key factors for companies with green initiatives.

How to Effectively Integrate LTL into Your Supply Chain

Implementing LTL successfully requires a strategic approach. Here’s how to get started:

1. Partner with a Reputable Carrier

Choose a transportation partner who specializes in LTL freight with the lowest claims ratio possible. Make sure they offer advanced tracking, reliable transit times, and integrated technology platforms.

2. Use Freight Technology

Transportation management systems (TMS) can help optimize LTL routes, consolidate shipments, and provide real-time visibility—critical components of modern supply chain management.

3. Leverage Data for Decision Making

Use shipping data to identify trends, reduce costs, and streamline operations. With the right analytics, companies can proactively manage shipping performance and carrier selection.

Final Thoughts

As companies continue to seek smarter, more agile supply chain solutions, LTL shipping is proving to be a powerful tool. When implemented strategically, LTL not only reduces costs but also increases flexibility, improves service levels, and aligns with sustainability goals.

By making LTL a core part of your holistic supply chain strategy, you position your business to scale more efficiently and stay competitive in an ever-evolving marketplace.

Looking to enhance your logistics strategy with LTL shipping? Contact Bison today to explore customized freight solutions that align with your business goals.

What is Transloading?

Transloading involves unloading freight from one transportation mode or container and reloading it onto another before final delivery. For cross-border shipments, this typically means transferring goods from a U.S. or Canadian trailer or railcar to a Mexican truck and trailer, or vice versa.

Pros of Transloading:

1. Improved Carrier Availability – There is often a shortage of long-haul drivers, making transloading a practical solution to optimize capacity.
2. Flexibility in Shipment Size – Transloading allows for shipment consolidation or deconsolidation, which can be beneficial for companies with varying load sizes.
3. Easier Compliance with Regulations – Cross-border trade regulations vary, and transloading ensures that shipments are handled in compliance with local rules.
4. In-Bond Shipping for Canada-Mexico Trade – by leveraging a freight forwarder in Laredo, bonded shipments are possible which enable freight to move directly between Canada and Mexico without clearing U.S. customs, reducing delays and paperwork.

Cons of Transloading:

1. Additional Handling Risks – Moving freight being handled between containers increases the chances of damage, loss, or delays.
2. Time Delays – Unloading and reloading cargo can add time to the supply chain process.
3. Infrastructure Dependence – Transloading facilities need to be well-equipped and strategically located to avoid bottlenecks.

What is Through-Trailer Service?

Through-trailer service allows a loaded trailer to travel directly across the border while staying in the original sealed container. This method minimizes handling and speeds up delivery.

Pros of Through-Trailer:

1. Reduced Handling Risk – Since goods remain in the same trailer, there’s less chance of damage or loss.
2. Faster Transit Times – Eliminating the need for transloading can speed up delivery, reducing supply chain disruptions.
3. Simplified Logistics – Managing a single shipment without intermediate transfers reduces the complexity of coordination.
4. In-Bond Shipping for Canada-Mexico Trade – Through-trailer service allows for efficient in-bond shipments, enabling freight to move directly between Canada and Mexico without clearing U.S. customs, reducing delays and paperwork.

Cons of Through-Trailer:

1. Higher Costs – Dedicated through-trailers may be more expensive than transloading, especially if backhaul opportunities are limited.
2. Limited Carrier Availability – Not all carriers operate across borders due to regulatory or security concerns.

Which Option is Best for Your Business?

The choice between transloading and through-trailer service depends on several factors, including cost sensitivity, shipment size, urgency, and infrastructure availability. Companies that ship directly between Mexico and Canada with high-volume shipments and strict delivery timelines may prefer through-trailer service. In contrast, businesses looking to optimize costs and flexibility may benefit from transloading.

By carefully assessing your supply chain needs and working with one of our Mexican shipping experts, you can determine the best shipping strategy to ensure efficiency, compliance, and cost-effectiveness when transporting goods between Mexico, the U.S., and Canada.

The Complexities of Mexican Customs

Mexico has strict import and export requirements, including detailed customs declarations, tariff classifications, and compliance with government regulations. Businesses must navigate:

• Extensive Paperwork – Importers and exporters must provide detailed commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin, among other documents.
• Customs Duties and Tariffs – Understanding how different goods are taxed and classified is crucial to avoiding unexpected costs.
• Regulatory Compliance – Certain products require additional permits, inspections, or certifications before entering or leaving Mexico.
• Border Crossings and Inspections – Goods may be subject to random inspections, which can lead to delays if documentation isn’t in order.

All of these factors make the process appear daunting, but with the right approach, businesses can ensure smooth and efficient shipping across the border.

Why Having the Right Logistics Partner is Essential

Rather than navigating the intricacies of Mexican customs alone, businesses can benefit significantly from working with a logistics provider that has a physical presence and strong relationships in Mexico. Here’s how the right supply chain partner can make all the difference:

1. Expert Knowledge of Customs Regulations

A partner with experience in Mexican trade understands the specific import/export regulations, ensuring that all paperwork is complete and accurate. This helps reduce errors that could lead to shipment delays or penalties.

2. Strong Relationships with Mexican Customs Authorities

Having a logistics provider with established connections in Mexico allows for smoother customs clearance. These relationships can help expedite the process and reduce the risk of unnecessary inspections or bottlenecks.

3. A Physical Presence in Mexico

A provider with offices, warehouses, or distribution centers in Mexico can offer real-time support and local expertise. This presence ensures that any issues that arise can be addressed immediately, keeping shipments on schedule.

4. Streamlined Documentation and Compliance Management

Your supply chain partner can manage the paperwork, ensuring compliance with all customs requirements. This includes handling tariff classifications, permits, and any special regulatory needs for specific goods.

5. Efficient Border Crossing Coordination

With the right partner, businesses can leverage pre-arranged customs processes, allowing for faster clearance and reducing unnecessary delays at the border.

Conclusion: Simplify Your Mexico Shipping Process

Shipping to and from Mexico may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. By partnering with a trusted supply chain expert like Bison who has a growing team of experts in Mexico with strong industry relationships, businesses can eliminate unnecessary stress, reduce delays, and ensure compliance with customs regulations.

Instead of viewing Mexican customs as a roadblock, think of it as a structured process that, with the right guidance, can be navigated efficiently. The key to success lies in choosing a partner that understands the landscape, has a presence on the ground, and can streamline operations so that your business keeps moving forward without disruption.

Customers may experience delays of 24-72 hours during these ongoing weather events through the weekend.

Our Intermodal Team remains committed to serving you and your customers, diligently working to communicate any delays and available service options. Should you have any concerns regarding specific Intermodal shipments, please do not hesitate to contact your Bison Account Manager or our Canadian Intermodal  Management Team (intermodal@bisontransport.com),  for assistance and to discuss current and future loads over the next five days.

The warnings were largely concentrated across the southern half of the provinces, painting the bottom half of the map red from just outside Lethbridge, Alta. — which can look forward to extreme cold with windchills down to –40 C — straight east to Fredericton, which can expect up to 25-40cm of snowfall.

Additionally, major snowfall warnings in the Eastern region may disrupt both rail services and road deliveries. Our Intermodal Team remains committed to serving you and your customers, diligently working to communicate any delays and available service options.

Should you have any concerns regarding specific Intermodal shipments, please do not hesitate to contact your Bison Account Manager or our Canadian Intermodal  Management Team (intermodal@bisontransport.com),  for assistance and to discuss current and future loads over the next five days.

For customers shipping to and from the province of Quebec, Bison will be implementing reduced weight requirements as outlined below in Tables 1 & 2.

*As a reminder –  some shipments may have Eastern Ontario destinations, (Cornwall, Ottawa, etc.), but are serviced through the Lachine Terminal and will be required to adhere to these guidelines.

For rail into NB restrictions are based on Zone limits and loads should be vetted by Intermodal prior to commitment.

The annual start date for cargo weight restriction is still only ‘Predicted’, currently estimated for March 17th, and is regulated by the Quebec Provincial government. The timing is dependent on several factors with the intention of minimizing damage to Provincial roads. Our plan is to have all loads exceeding the thaw period weight limits arrive/depart Quebec before March 17.

Should the Province mandate an earlier start date adjustments will be communicated. All loads exceeding the prescribed thaw period weight limits will be subject to special handling charges.

Table 1 – Latest shipping date for deliveries in Quebec

Table 2:  Maximum Payloads – allowable content weight:

Spring Thaw Allowable Axle Weights:

Weight Restrictions Policy:

Bison will not ingate any containers with a payload more than the Government of Quebec Spring thaw weight restrictions after “Last Shipment Date”.

• Scaling will be required prior to billing/ingate for ALL Intermodal shipments with destination of PQ.
  • Axle Weights must comply with guidelines and should be provided to the IM Regional Coordinator as soon as scaling has been completed
• If a shipment is scaled Overweight, the shipper is required to make necessary adjustments to comply with loading guidelines prior to ingate.
  • All associated redelivery / Driver wait charges are to be assessed to customer.
• A Customer Bulletin will be communicated when the weight restrictions are lifted. This is regulated by the Quebec Provincial government Ministry of Transport.

With cold temps not anticipated to break in the next 48 hrs, it is suggested to allow for an extra day of transit with reduced rail speeds due to weather restrictions.

Our Intermodal Tracing team will be monitoring departures/arrivals of all Bison shipments and will communicate to Customer Service of loads impacted by weather.

Service alerts by rail are reporting the following:

• BC – No restrictions
• AB – Level 2
• SK/MB – Restrictions in the prairies to transition from Level 2 to Level 3 through the next 24hrs *Some areas may reach Level 4 restrictions with overnight lows*
• NW ON – Level 1

All restrictions are being monitored for adjustments based on safety requirements.

What do these levels impact?

• During cold temps, a train’s maximum speed must be reduced by 10-30% when the temperatures drop below – 25C.
• Train Speeds are adjusted incrementally based on temperatures and conditions.
• These speed decreases can also impact inbound placement when traffic arrives at terminals out of the scheduled slot time.
• Cold temps may also restrict allowable footage, which is adjusted in Levels 2, 3 & 4 outbound from terminals. This can increase terminal congestion, impacting operational performance within rail yards.
• Footage reductions would be applied at originating terminals so terminal congestion could also impact PQ & ON

1. Flexibility in Shipment Sizes: LTL shipping allows grocery retailers to ship smaller quantities of products without waiting to fill an entire truck. This flexibility means that your inventory can be cycled more frequently, reducing the time products spend in storage. As a result, items like noodles, sauces, cereals, and snacks arrive at stores with a long expiry window.
2. Frequent Stock Replenishment: With LTL shipping, grocery retailers can replenish stock more frequently and consistently. This approach eliminates the need for over-ordering and reduces the risk of dealing with returns and the disposition of unsold or stale-dated products. Items such as granola, cookies, crackers, and candy can be delivered as needed allowing retails to adopt fresh-first inventory management processes.
3. Cost-Effectiveness: While shipping smaller loads more frequently might seem costlier, LTL shipping can be more economical in the long run. By sharing truck space with other shipments, grocery retailers can reduce transportation costs. This cost-effectiveness allows retailers to invest more in quality products and less in logistics.
4. Reduced Inventory Holding Time: With LTL shipping, grocery retailers can adopt a just-in-time inventory approach to increase inventory turnover. This strategy minimizes the time products spend in storage, reducing the risk of spoilage and waste and ultimately improving cash flow with less cash tied up in unsold inventory. This approach can benefit grocery products like chocolate, gum, dog food, and drinks can be delivered directly to stores as needed.
5. Enhanced Supply Chain Efficiency: LTL shipping can streamline the supply chain by reducing the need for large, centralized warehouses. Instead, products can be shipped directly from manufacturers or distribution centers to individual stores. This direct-to-store model speeds up the delivery process, making it easier to respond to consumer demand.

How do you pick the right LTL provider? When selecting an LTL provider, prioritize companies with established partnerships with major grocery warehouses and wholesalers, ensuring seamless integration into their supply chain. It’s beneficial to choose providers with local operations that include drop-trailer arrangements, shunting, and trailer pools at major distribution centers, as these services enhance efficiency and flexibility. Dedicated customer service programs are crucial for maintaining shipment visibility and effective management, particularly for grocery shipments. Lastly, providers that actively work to mitigate non-compliance charges can help reduce unexpected costs in your distribution network.

If you need a practical and efficient solution to improve your inventory management, look to LTL. By providing flexibility, cost savings, and enhanced supply chain efficiency, LTL shipping ensures that products reach consumers in the best possible condition. Embracing LTL shipping can help you meet the high product standards that your customers expect. Bison’s team of LTL experts can help you navigate these waters, so get in touch with us to learn more.

1. Reliable and Consistent Capacity: Dedicated fleets offer committed equipment and drivers, ensuring that you have the necessary resources available whenever needed. This reliability is crucial for businesses that move large volumes of freight multiple times per day.
2. Cost Efficiency and Capital Savings: Investing in a dedicated fleet means you don’t have to pour additional capital into purchasing and maintaining your own equipment. This model also slashes the financial burden associated with vehicle maintenance, insurance, and other operational costs.
3. Flexibility to Scale with Business Needs: Dedicated fleet services provide the flexibility to scale operations according to your business needs, adapting to changing demands and ensuring timely and precise delivery.
4. Reduced Liability and Risk: By outsourcing fleet management to dedicated providers, you can significantly mitigate liability and risk, allowing you to focus on your core business operations.
5. Enhanced Collaboration and Efficiency: A dedicated fleet model fosters a collaborative relationship between you and your carriers, enabling the identification of efficiencies and the implementation of best practices that drive business growth.
6. Specialized Equipment and Techniques: Dedicated fleet services can cater to your specific industry needs, providing customized solutions that enhance the reliability and efficiency of your supply chain.

How to Pick the Right Dedicated Fleet?

When selecting a dedicated fleet, prioritize ongoing transparent communication and measurement. Choose a partner who offers regular updates—weekly, monthly, and bi-annual—and conducts post-implementation assessments. These business reviews are vital for maintaining high standards. By partnering with providers who emphasize timely invoicing and the maintenance of key performance indicators (KPIs), you can ensure consistent value delivery.

By leveraging the expertise and resources of dedicated fleet providers, you can achieve greater efficiency, reduce operational risks, and focus on growing your business. As the logistics landscape continues to evolve, dedicated fleet services are poised to play an increasingly important role in the success of modern supply chains.

The Essence of In-Bond Shipping

At its core, in-bond shipping allows goods to be transported through different countries without paying import duties at each border crossing. Instead, customs duties are deferred until the final destination. This system is particularly beneficial when shipping goods to and from Mexico, as it simplifies what can often be a convoluted customs process and helps businesses save on costs and time.

Why Choose In-Bond Shipping?

For businesses operating within North America, in-bond shipping offers a strategic advantage. It streamlines the logistics process, reduces costs associated with customs duties at intermediate borders, and enhances overall supply chain efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned exporter or new to the market, integrating in-bond shipping into your logistics strategy can yield significant benefits.

Navigating the In-Bond Shipping Process

In-bond shipping can seem like a labyrinth of forms, regulations, and checkpoints. However, starting with the right supply chain partner makes navigating this maze significantly more manageable by leveraging their robust expertise and network to ensure that your goods travel seamlessly from origin to destination, minimizing delays and optimizing cost efficiency. Here’s how a partner can help:

1. Pre-Planning Perfection: Experienced logistics partners will begin by meticulously planning each shipment. This includes filing the necessary paperwork, such as the Transportation and Exportation (T&E) bond, and coordinating with customs authorities to pre-clear goods.
2. Seamless Crossings: As your shipment moves across borders, they’ll ensure that all in-bond regulations are followed, maintaining compliance and avoiding potential roadblocks. The right partner will comprehensively understand customs regulations in Mexico, the U.S., and Canada.
3. Final Clearance and Delivery: Once the shipment reaches its final destination, your supply chain partner handles the final customs clearance, ensuring that duties and taxes are settled as required. This process allows you to focus on your core operations without being bogged down by complex customs requirements.

Choosing the right in-bond partner

When choosing an in-bond supply chain partner, it’s crucial to consider several key factors to ensure seamless cross-border operations. First, evaluate the partner’s experience and expertise in handling in-bond shipments, as this will directly impact their ability to navigate complex customs regulations and documentation requirements. Having employees and a physical presence in Mexico is essential, as it allows for a better understanding and management of local logistics and regulatory nuances. Additionally, assess their technological capabilities, such as real-time tracking and data integration, which are essential for maintaining transparency and efficiency throughout the supply chain. It’s also important to verify their compliance with international trade laws and ability to adapt to changing regulations. Furthermore, a trustworthy network of partners in Mexico can significantly enhance operational efficiency and reliability. Finally, consider their reputation and reliability, as these attributes indicate their commitment to delivering consistent and timely service, which is vital for minimizing disruptions and optimizing your logistics strategy.

We can help

Navigating the intricate web of international shipping doesn’t have to be daunting. With Bison’s in-bond shipping expertise, you can transform your logistics operations into a well-oiled machine, expanding your reach within North America without the usual headaches.

Curious about how in-bond shipping can revolutionize your supply chain? Talk to an expert at Bison today. Our team is ready to guide you through this process and show you how seamless cross-border trade can be.

The New Era of Supply Chain Resilience

Over the past few years, supply chains have faced unprecedented pressures. From fluctuating consumer demand and manufacturing reshoring to the impacts of trade policies and natural disasters, businesses have had to rethink how they move goods. Resilience is the cornerstone of modern supply chains—requiring flexibility, visibility, and innovation to adapt to shifting conditions.

In North America, this is particularly relevant. The interconnected economies of the region demand a holistic approach to logistics that considers regulatory differences, infrastructure limitations, and the unique needs of cross-border trade.

Technology as a Driver of Efficiency

Digital transformation is at the heart of resilient supply chains. Technologies like real-time tracking, predictive analytics, and automated systems allow businesses to anticipate disruptions and respond proactively. By leveraging these tools, companies can optimize routes, improve delivery timelines, and maintain better control over inventory—ensuring they stay competitive in a fast-moving marketplace.

AI is revolutionizing supply chains by enabling more accurate demand forecasting and enhancing decision-making processes. With AI-driven insights, companies can predict market trends and consumer behavior, leading to more efficient inventory management and reduced operational costs. This technological advancement not only boosts productivity but also fosters innovation within the supply chain ecosystem.

Collaboration across the supply chain is another critical factor. Partnerships between carriers, manufacturers, and distributors enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. For businesses that embrace this networked approach, the results are measurable: lower lead times, reduced waste, and greater customer satisfaction.

Navigating the Cross-Border Supply Chain

Trade between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico is a significant driver of economic growth, but navigating these borders comes with its own set of challenges. Regulatory compliance, customs requirements, and varying infrastructure capabilities can create bottlenecks for even the most well-planned supply chains. Potential tariffs could further complicate cross-border supply chains by increasing costs and creating additional regulatory hurdles.

To overcome these obstacles, businesses must prioritize robust cross-border strategies. This includes staying ahead of regulatory changes, investing in infrastructure that supports seamless transitions, and cultivating partnerships that offer local expertise in each region.

Building the Future Together

The supply chain challenges of today are an opportunity to build a stronger, more integrated North American logistics network. Businesses that focus on resilience, collaboration, and innovation will be best positioned to thrive in this dynamic environment.

At Bison, we understand the complexities of these challenges. With our extensive experience and growing presence across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, we offer the tools, expertise, and infrastructure to help businesses navigate these shifting dynamics. Whether you’re addressing domestic logistics or cross-border complexities, our North American supply-chain solutions are designed to keep you moving forward.

Contact Bison to explore how our solutions can help your business adapt and succeed in the evolving logistics landscape.