Refrigerated Transport in McAllen and its Importance for Trade in Mexico

#### McAllen: Logistics Center Refrigerated transport has become a fundamental pillar for international trade, especially between McAllen, Texas, and Mexico. McAllen is one of the main entry and exit points for perishable products between both countries. This specialized logistics service guarantees the quality and freshness of food, medicines, and other temperature-sensitive products. In this blog, we explore what refrigerated transport is, why McAllen is key in this activity, and its impact on trade between Mexico and the United States. ### **What is refrigerated transport?** Refrigerated transport refers to logistics that uses units equipped with refrigeration systems to maintain products within a specific temperature range during transportation. This service is crucial for the **supply chain** of sectors such as: * **Agroindustry:** Fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products. * **Pharmaceutical:** Vaccines, medications, and biologicals. * **Food industry:** Frozen products and beverages. These refrigerated units, also known as _reefers_, ensure that products reach their destination without compromising their quality or shelf life, avoiding economic losses and public health problems. * * * ### **McAllen: A strategic logistics node** McAllen, located in south Texas, has consolidated as a key point for trade between Mexico and the United States due to its proximity to the border and its advanced logistics infrastructure. Among the factors that make McAllen an essential center for refrigerated transport are: 1. **Proximity to Mexico** McAllen connects directly with Reynosa, Tamaulipas, through the Anzaldúas International Bridge and the Hidalgo-Reynosa Bridge. This proximity allows perishable products to quickly cross the border, reducing transit times and risks associated with temperature variations. 2. **Specialized infrastructure** The region has cold storage warehouses, cargo terminals, and logistics companies that specialize in handling refrigerated goods. These services include constant temperature monitoring, route optimization, and compliance with international regulations. 3. **Bilateral trade volume** The United States is Mexico's main trading partner, and McAllen plays a prominent role in exporting fruits, vegetables, and meat from Mexico, as well as importing pharmaceutical products and processed foods. More than 50% of perishable products crossing the border pass through points near McAllen. * * * ### **The impact of refrigerated transport on Mexico-United States trade** Refrigerated transport is not only a logistics tool but also a facilitator of international trade. For Mexico and the United States, this service ensures the competitiveness of their industries and the integration of their economies. Some of the most significant impacts are: 1. **Guarantee of freshness and quality** Thanks to refrigerated transport, Mexico can export fresh agricultural products, such as avocados, berries, tomatoes, and chiles, that meet the strict quality standards of the US market. In turn, US companies can send medications and processed foods to Mexico without risk of deterioration. 2. **Reduction of food waste** Refrigerated transport minimizes the risk of losses during transportation of sensitive goods. This is especially important in agroindustry, where waste can affect producers, distributors, and final consumers. 3. **Boost to regional economy** Trade between McAllen and Mexico generates jobs on both sides of the border, from transport operators and specialized technicians to warehouse workers and logistics companies. Additionally, it strengthens small and medium producers by connecting their goods with international markets. * * * ### **Refrigerated transport challenges** Although refrigerated transport has transformed international logistics, it also faces important challenges: 1. **High cost** Operating refrigerated units involves high maintenance, fuel, and technology costs. This can represent an obstacle for small companies seeking to compete in global markets. 2. **Strict regulations** Transport of perishable products is subject to international regulations, such as the _Treaty between Mexico, the United States and Canada (USMCA)_ and US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards. Complying with these regulations requires training and rigorous processes. 3. **Sustainability** Refrigerated units depend on fossil fuels, generating significant environmental impact. Currently, the industry faces pressure to adopt more sustainable technologies, such as electric refrigeration systems or renewable energy. * * * ### **The future of refrigerated transport in McAllen and Mexico** Demand for refrigerated transport continues to grow as trade in temperature-sensitive products increases. In this context, both McAllen and Mexico must adapt to market trends and needs. Some keys for the future are: 1. **Advanced technology** The use of IoT sensors, GPS tracking systems, and real-time monitoring allows precise control of temperature and location of goods. These technologies reduce risks and improve efficiency. 2. **Logistics alliances** Collaboration between Mexican and US logistics companies is essential to optimize processes, share infrastructure, and reduce costs. This benefits both countries by strengthening their supply chains. 3. **Commitment to sustainability** The development of more efficient and ecological refrigerated transport systems will be crucial to mitigate the sector's environmental impact, meeting consumer and regulator expectations. * * * ### **Control Terrestre: Leading in refrigerated transport** At **Control Terrestre**, we understand the importance of refrigerated transport for key sectors such as agroindustry, pharmaceutical, and food industry. We specialize in offering reliable logistics solutions that guarantee the quality and freshness of your products, from their origin to their destination. Our commitment to excellence includes the use of advanced technologies, optimized routes, and a focus on sustainability. Thanks to our experience in managing temperature-sensitive cargo, we are prepared to connect your business with international markets, overcoming challenges and maintaining quality standards. **Trust Control Terrestre for your refrigerated transport needs and strengthen your logistics chain with us!**