Laredo

Laredo is the 2nd largest exporter in the United States, exporting $116 billion in 2023 while being the 4th largest importer, importing $184 billion. Most of Laredo’s exports and imports are oil, gasoline, or electronics, though some manufactured and agricultural products go in and out of the city. Laredo mainly exports and imports to Mexico (as they are on the US-Mexico border) and Nicaragua. However, the city also exports to Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Japan while importing from China, France, and Thailand.

 

Because of Laredo’s relationship with Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, logistics and trade are the biggest industries in the city, with many companies specializing in import, export, warehousing, and distribution. Retail and finance are also major sectors in the city; Northern Mexicans frequently travel to Laredo to shop, and banks handle transactions from the US and Mexico. This has led domestic and international companies to settle in Laredo to exploit border trading and access to multiple transportation modes.

Listed below are companies headquartered in Laredo:

These companies are crucial to driving the city’s economy, as most are involved in developing and distributing major imports and exports.  As the city continues to embrace new infrastructures and industries, its status as a logistics powerhouse will also continue to rise.

Freight Shipping Rates To Any City

Shipping from city to city can be challenging. But it doesn’t have to be if you work with FreightCenter. We’re a 3PL dedicated to enhancing your shipping experience. We’ll find reputable carriers in your metropolitan area from our extensive network of over 50 shipping companies.

No matter where your freight is shipping to or from, Enjoy reliable, cost-effective freight services with easy booking and tracking tools. FreightCenter knows how to ship freight right!

Call us at (800) 716-7608, or use our free online quote tool to find and compare rates to and from any city in North America!

FreightCenter’s vast network of carriers includes companies servicing the Laredo metro area. We connect customers to reputable trucking carriers, finding the right one for your shipping needs. Some of FreightCenter’s partnered freight shipping companies include:

Note: FreightCenter adds and removes carrier partners from time to time. This list may not be current. Ask your FreightCenter agent for assistance.

Laredo’s Major Highways and Freeways

Several major highways and tollways service the Laredo Metro area. These include the following:

• I-35
• I-69W
• US 59
• US 83
• TX SH 255
• TX SH 359
• TX State Loop 20
• Farm to Market Road 1472 Laredo

 

In addition to the city’s major highways, the border between it and Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, is connected by 4 road bridges, including:

• Gateway to the Americans International Bridge (non-commercial-vehicle bridge)
• Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge, the southern terminus of I-35 (limited commercial vehicle bridge)
• Columbia-Solidarity International Bridge, on Nuevo Leon, Mexico/Texas border (all vehicles welcome)
• World Trade International Bridge the terminus for Loop 20, I-69W, and US 59 (commercial vehicles only)

 

 

Laredo’s Major Ports, Terminals, and Warehouses

The Port of Laredo (Port Laredo) handles international trade between the United States and Mexico and is the largest inland port in the nation. The port handles all ports of entry via air, rail, and truck transportation, including the four road bridges, the Texas Mexican Railway International Bridge, and the Laredo International Airport. It also handles federal inspections via 15 stations at the World Trade Bridge, a commercial vehicle-only bridge. The port is a designated Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ 94), which allows companies to utilize its services frequently to receive certain tax benefits.

Laredo has about 58 industrial parks, each with its own prices and built-to-suit properties. The most notable parks are Port Laredo Industrial Park, Pinnacle Industry Center, and Gateway Industrial Park, all located near the US-Mexico border.

Laredo Railroads

Laredo and Nuevo Laredo in Mexico are linked by rail via the Texas Mexican Railway International Bridge, crossing the Rio Grande. The single-track bridge is the busiest rail border crossing in North America. The bridge and track are owned and operated by Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (CPKC), which is the first and only railroad company to serve the US, Mexico, and Canada directly. A second rail bridge is under construction, which would increase train capacity and allow each bridge to focus on a single traffic direction. The bridge is expected to be completed by the end of 2024.

Union Pacific also provides rail and intermodal services 8 miles from Laredo’s industrial parks via the Port of Laredo, serving Dallas and the Midwest states.

Laredo Airports and Commercial Airlines

The main airport in the city is Laredo International Airport (LRD), just 3 miles northeast of the downtown area. While passenger flights are limited to three airline carriers (Allegiant, American Airlines, and United) with flights to Dallas, Houston, and Las Vegas, LRD’s commercial cargo services are more extensive due to the airport’s proximity to the US-Mexico border. FedEx and UPS are two of the biggest parcel carriers using the airport, with Aeronaves TSM having the most flights and destinations in the US and Mexico.

Cost to Ship Freight to Laredo

Several factors influence the cost when shipping to and from Laredo. This includes:

• Type, size, and weight: Shipping heavy equipment, perishable goods, or specialized cargo will affect pricing. Laredo offers a variety of shipping options, from standard LTL to temperature-controlled and expedited services, ensuring your freight arrives safely and securely.
• Seasonal changes and demand: Laredo’s rates fluctuate as much as the seasons change, especially during severe weather events or peak holiday shipping seasons.
• Shipping distance: How far are you shipping your freight? The length between point A and point B will heavily determine your rate. Popular routes to and from Laredo include major cities like Houston, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Los Angeles, where established rates can result in competitive rates.
• What transportation mode is used: How you get your freight to and from Laredo matters. LTL freight shipping via truck is much cheaper than air or rail shipping. However, it is also riskier and slower than those two, especially when your freight passes through multiple terminals throughout the city.
• Accessorial Charges: Additional services, such as liftgate requirements, residential delivery, or limited access locations, can impact the final shipping price. Laredo’s vast network of carriers ensures you can find a provider that offers the services you need at the right price.

As one of the busiest logistics hubs in the world, Laredo offers competitive rates due to its extensive network of freight carriers, proximity to key markets, and multiple transportation options. The city provides flexible and cost-effective solutions tailored to your needs, whether shipping less-than-truckload (LTL), full truckload (FTL), air cargo, intermodal cargo, or ocean and container drayage.

Why Choose Laredo for Your Shipping Needs?

Shipping to and from Laredo offers unique advantages other logistics hubs can’t match:

Gateway to Latin America: Laredo is the primary port of entry between the U.S. and Mexico, making it a strategic hub for companies with supply chains that reach Latin America and beyond. With direct access to Mexico’s extensive rail and road networks, Laredo offers faster, more efficient options for cross-border shipments, saving time and cost on your freight movements.

High Volume, Lower Costs: Laredo is one of the busiest inland ports in the U.S., handling millions of truckloads each year. This high volume often results in more competitive per-unit costs, making Laredo a cost-effective option for cross-border shipping. Companies moving freight to or from Mexico can benefit from these efficiencies and enjoy streamlined customs processes.

Drayage and Cross-Border Options: Laredo is renowned for its cross-border and drayage services, connecting shipments from Mexican to U.S. distribution networks seamlessly. With an array of specialized carriers and logistics providers, Laredo can help get your goods the rest of the way, whether you’re transporting materials locally or moving products internationally.

How to Ship Freight to Laredo

When shipping from Laredo, start by gathering accurate information on what you are shipping, like the weight and dimensions, including the packaging. The freight will be handled multiple times at several freight terminals along the way. To protect your shipment during transport, crating an item is recommended.

You can compare the city’s freight rates with our freight quote tool and find a carrier that meets your pricing and shipping needs. Ask our in-house shipping experts which carrier will be best for your shipment. They will also advise you if any other fees or special services are needed when shipping to Laredo.

Get the Best Laredo Freight Rates Today

To find the most competitive rates for shipping freight to or from Laredo, use our online freight quote tool. Instantly compare rates from over 50 carriers and choose the best option for your needs. Alternatively, call 800.716.7608 to speak with one of our freight experts and receive a custom quote tailored to your shipment.

Make Laredo your next shipping destination and experience reliable, cost-effective freight services from a city that’s a leader in logistics and transportation.