APL Logistics has announced the opening of its first customs brokerage office, the latest in the company’s efforts to expand its US network. The centre will operate through its recently-acquired subsidiary Carmichael International Service, with which it formed an alliance in 2012.
APL aims to ease business operations for customers on both sides of the border and increase trade with Mexico’s fast-growing automotive market.
The office, located in Laredo, Texas, will handle all commodities with a strong focus on automotive. Import and export management services will be managed through the US ports of Brownsville, Eagle Pass, Del Rio and Hidalgo/Pharr, as well as the port of Progreso in Mexico.
Laredo is the top US inland port, and the third largest district in terms of US customs. It handles almost half (48%) of all trans US-Mexico trade, and is also the busiest railroad interchange on the border.
“We are excited to open our first facility on the US southern border, further integrating us into the North American Free Trade Agreement free trade zone,” said Tony Zasimovich, APL’s senior vice president of international logistics services. “With an enhanced customs clearance and trade capability on the important US-Mexico trade lane, we can provide significant opportunities for our customers with US import business from Mexico."
John Salvo, president of Carmichael International Service, also said, “The Laredo region is a dynamic marketplace that offers great potential. We are pleased to welcome a seasoned trade professional, Rosalinda Saenz, to lead our new operations here. Rosalinda has a long history in the local community, and she will provide us with the deep experience and vast knowledge necessary to serve our customers’ supply chain needs.”
APL now manages a number of customs brokerage offices across the country: in Los Angeles, Long Beach, New York, New Jersey, Chicago, San Francisco, Oakland, Seattle, Miami, Boston, Atlanta, Savannah and Memphis.
