Enforcement of cross-border cargo regulations has significantly increased during the Trump administration, causing delays and financial burdens for shippers, according to industry experts.
With the implementation of tariffs along the 49th parallel, transportation insiders report a surge in freight inspections and penalties, reflecting a stricter customs approach in the protectionist environment of the United States.
Breanna Leininger, leading U.S. operations at Vancouver’s Pacific Customs Brokers, described the shift as substantial. Document demands from border officials for shipped goods have multiplied tenfold compared to previous years, requiring importers to provide extensive paperwork such as labor and manufacturing records to demonstrate compliance with product classifications and trade agreements.
Statistics support the narrative of heightened enforcement measures. U.S. Customs and Border Protection data indicates a projected 26% increase in audits this year compared to 2024, with a notable surge in trade penalties collection, amounting to $70.6 million US in the first half of 2026, a significant rise from previous years.
This escalated enforcement coincides with an escalating trade conflict between Canada and the U.S., marked by reciprocal tariff increases. The resulting border delays and additional administrative burdens contribute to increased costs and potential deterrence of cross-border trade.
Alan Dewar, executive vice-president at GHY, a Winnipeg-based customs brokerage, highlighted the financial impact of these developments on businesses, emphasizing the added costs and logistical challenges faced by drivers and suppliers due to extended border processing times.
Despite efforts to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape, some industry players find the current environment excessively demanding, leading to potential disengagement from cross-border trade activities.
In response to inquiries, U.S. Customs and Border Protection emphasized the importance of importers exercising due diligence and providing accurate information to comply with trade regulations, underscoring the agency’s commitment to assessing and adapting its enforcement strategies based on risk assessment and legal requirements.
