Green and Collaborative Logistics in the U.S-Mexico Border: The Blue5PL Case

The pandemic supply chain disruptions, the political turmoil between the United States (U.S.) and China, the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), and the high cost of transportation and energy have forced many North American companies to nearshore in Mexico. The U.S.-Mexico cross-border logistics market represents an estimate of more than 80 billion U.S. dollars. Stronger demand reaches far and wide; consequently, the transportation industry experiences insufficient trucks and drivers. Moreover, the so-called full truckloads (FTLs) are not actually full, negatively affecting the environment. In this chapter, we start by going into detail about the latest disruptions in North America’s logistics industry. We continue by building the foundation of our learning proposal with theoretical frameworks, such as green logistics and circular economy. Then, we share our chosen case of sustainable practices: Blue5PL. This FreightTech company reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by an average of 38% by combining shipments as well as avoiding several FTLs with empty space and inefficient rides. It also offers lower cost, less time in transit, and less damages. With this example, we demonstrate the application of the circular economy’s “reduce” principle and encourage others to develop green logistics practices. Finally, we close with key lessons as the takeaway.