The ball is about to drop, but in the world of cross-border trade, the clock never stops. At Americas Forwarding, we know that the transition from December to January is one of the most volatile periods for the US-Mexico supply chain.

As we head into 2026, the “New Year’s Bottleneck” is being intensified by record-breaking nearshoring volumes. If your freight isn’t already moving, you’re likely facing a perfect storm of capacity shortages and holiday closures.

The “Week 53” Capacity Crunch

Why does capacity disappear during the first days of January? It’s a combination of factors: drivers taking well-deserved time off, equipment being repositioned for Q1 contracts, and a surge in last-minute fiscal year-end shipments.

According to the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration), safety and hours-of-service compliance remain top priorities during holiday surges. For shippers, this means that finding a compliant, high-quality carrier at the last minute becomes both difficult and expensive.

Critical Factors for your January Start

Success in the first two weeks of 2026 depends on how you navigate these three areas:

1. CBP and Customs Holiday Hours: U.S. Customs and Border Protection CBP (U.S. Customs and Border Protection) operates on modified schedules during New Year’s Day. Failing to sync your pickup with port hours can lead to costly detention fees and warehouse congestion.

2. Winter Weather Protocols: January is peak season for winter storms in the Midwest and Northern Mexico. At Americas Forwarding, we prioritize safety over speed. Understanding the National Weather Service forecasts for your specific lane is crucial for setting realistic delivery expectations with your customers.

3. The Q1 Inventory Reset: After the “peak” of consumer goods, January shifts toward industrial replenishment. The demand for raw materials and machinery parts often catches shippers off guard after the holiday lull.

The Americas Forwarding Strategy for 2026

We don’t just move freight; we manage variables. Here is how we are ensuring our clients start 2026 on the right foot:

• Pre-Booked Capacity: By leveraging our deep carrier network, we secure “must-go” capacity weeks in advance, shielding our clients from the volatility of the spot market.

• Real-Time Cross-Border Visibility: Using advanced tracking, we provide minute-by-minute updates on border wait times, allowing us to reroute shipments to less congested ports of entry when necessary.

• C-TPAT & Security Focus: The holidays often see a spike in cargo theft. Our rigorous security protocols and 24/7 monitoring ensure that your year-end inventory arrives safely, not just on time.

Starting 2026 on the Front Foot

The transition into the new year is a test of your logistics provider’s agility. In 2026, the winners will be those who prioritize planning over reaction. At Americas Forwarding, we are proud to be the bridge that connects North American markets, regardless of the season.

Is your 2026 freight strategy locked in? Don’t wait for the January rush to find out. Contact our cross-border experts today and let’s keep your supply chain moving forward.