Inside the 9th Annual Modernization of Cross-Border Trade

What started as a small dinner in Laredo, Texas, has become the premier event for professionals navigating cross-border logistics.

The 9th Annual Modernization of Cross-Border Trade (MCBT) welcomed representatives from more than 500 logistics companies this year, bringing together carriers, brokers, shippers, customs professionals, and technology providers for a day of education, networking, and collaboration centered on the future of U.S.-Mexico trade.

Hosted by Reliance Partners and Borderless Coverage, MCBT has grown alongside the rapidly evolving cross-border transportation industry. As nearshoring accelerates, regulations continue to evolve, and supply chains become more interconnected, the conversations taking place in Laredo have never been more important.

Built to Connect an Industry

Nine years ago, MCBT was created to bring together professionals working in cross-border transportation. Today, it has become the largest U.S.-to-Mexico logistics event in the country.

“Our goal has always been to create a place where the industry can come together, share ideas, and build relationships,” said Mark Vickers, Executive Vice President and Head of International Logistics at Reliance Partners.

While the event has grown significantly, its purpose remains the same: helping companies better understand the opportunities and risks involved in moving freight across the border.

Cross-Border Risk Management Takes Center Stage

One of the biggest themes throughout this year’s event was carrier vetting and risk management.

With recent legal developments increasing expectations around carrier selection and compliance, brokers and shippers are placing greater emphasis on working with trusted partners throughout Mexico.

Discussions focused on best practices for carrier vetting, cargo insurance, compliance, and protecting shipments moving across international borders. As cross-border freight volumes continue to increase, these topics are becoming essential for companies looking to reduce risk while maintaining efficient operations.

Looking Ahead to USMCA 2.0

Attendees also heard from industry leaders about the future of North American trade as discussions around USMCA 2.0 continue.

Panels explored how upcoming changes could impact cross-border operations and what companies can do now to prepare. Conversations also highlighted emerging infrastructure initiatives designed to improve freight movement between the United States and Mexico, reinforcing the importance of long-term planning and collaboration across the supply chain.

Relationships Continue to Drive Success

While educational sessions remain a cornerstone of MCBT, some of the event’s biggest value comes from the conversations happening outside the meeting room.

Throughout the day, attendees had opportunities to connect with carriers, brokers, shippers, and service providers from both sides of the border, building relationships that strengthen the cross-border supply chain long after the event ends.

As Mark Vickers shared during the event:

“This is where everyone learns what world-class risk management looks like between the U.S. and Mexico.”

Those connections—and the willingness to share knowledge across borders—continue to be what sets MCBT apart.

Learn More

At Reliance Partners and Borderless Coverage, we’re proud to host an event that helps transportation professionals stay ahead of industry changes while building stronger partnerships across North America.

For the complete event recap and additional insights, Visit FreightWaves.