Cross-border cargo enforcement has significantly increased during the Trump administration, causing delays and financial burdens for shippers, according to industry professionals.
The implementation of higher tariffs along the 49th parallel has led to a rise in freight inspections and penalties, reflecting a more protectionist stance by the United States on customs matters.
Describing the situation as a major change, Breanna Leininger, who manages U.S. operations at Pacific Customs Brokers in Vancouver, noted a tenfold increase in the documentation required for shipped goods compared to previous years.
She highlighted the shift in customs scrutiny, stating that the frequency of deeper inspections has risen significantly, from only a few instances per quarter a few years ago to multiple instances per day now, given her role handling shipments for 5,000 customers across the border.
Importers are now required to provide extensive documentation, such as labor and manufacturing records, to demonstrate compliance with product classifications and trade agreements. The level of proof and the specific tariffed items requested seem to change frequently, making compliance more challenging.
Leininger emphasized the dynamic nature of the requirements, stating that the requested information continuously evolves.
Official statistics support the narrative of stricter enforcement measures.
Data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection indicate a projected 26% increase in audits in the current year compared to 2024.
An audit involves reviewing an importer’s records to ensure compliance with tariff classifications, customs valuations, and trade pact requirements like the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement.
In the first six months of the current year, U.S. customs authorities collected $70.6 million US in trade penalties by late July, marking a substantial 169% increase from the total penalties imposed in 2024.
Additionally, this figure represents a 53% surge compared to the penalties collected throughout 2025.
Intensifying Trade Dispute
The heightened enforcement measures coincide with an escalating trade conflict between Canada and the U.S., evidenced by recent rounds of reciprocal tariffs.
The delays at the border and the increased paperwork requirements contribute to higher costs and, in some instances, discourage cross-border trade.
Alan Dewar, the executive vice-president at GHY, a customs brokerage in Winnipeg, noted the significant financial implications, emphasizing the added expenses incurred due to delays and disruptions in the supply chain.