Navigating Freight Logistics in the U.S. with the Right 3PL Partner

Bringing Food & Beverage and consumer products into the U.S. from Latin America is no small feat. From managing temperature-sensitive cargo to navigating regulatory, cultural and tax hurdles, the freight landscape can be complex and costly, particularly for newcomers into the territory. 

Today’s U.S. freight environment is marked by rising fuel costs, driver shortages, port congestion, and fluctuating consumer demand. For LATAM brands entering or expanding in the market, the stakes are even higher: delays can compromise product freshness, and missteps in the final mile can damage a brand’s reputation before it’s even built. 

Source Logistics is the leading supply chain and logistics provider for imported, internationally celebrated consumer brands. And, with over 25 years of experience and a range of specialized, integrated supply chain and logistics services, we enable some of the world’s most popular food, beverage, health, beauty, and consumer brands to reach their U.S. customers through transport, warehousing and fulfillment services. 

Here’s what you need to know about the core components of freight transport, what challenges you can expect, and how Source Logistics can support your expansion plans in the U.S. 

Breaking Down Source Freight: FTL, LTL, Cross-Border, Drayage, and Final Mile 

Understanding your options is the first step toward a reliable, cost-effective transport strategy. Each mode plays a unique role in the journey from port to shelf. 

Full Truckload (FTL) 

FTL is ideal for large shipments that can fill an entire truck. It offers direct, faster transit and reduces the risk of product handling or damage—especially important for time-sensitive or temperature-controlled shipments. 

Less Than Truckload (LTL) 

LTL is a cost-efficient solution for smaller shipments. Your cargo shares space with other goods, which means you only pay for the space you use. However, LTL requires careful planning to mitigate challenges caused by multiple stops and transfers. 

Cross-Border

Drayage 

Drayage refers to the short-haul movement of containers between ports, warehouses, and distribution centers. Though it’s a small leg of the journey, drayage is critical. Poor execution can cause costly delays, especially when navigating U.S. ports and customs. 

Final Mile Delivery 

This last leg—from distribution hub to retailer or end-customer—is crucial for preserving product quality and meeting service-level expectations. Especially for Food and Beverage, on-time and temperature-controlled final mile delivery is key to customer satisfaction. 

Today’s Challenges in U.S. Freight Logistics 

Food and beverage brands importing into the U.S. face several freight-specific challenges, such as: 

• Cold Chain Integrity: Fresh and frozen products must maintain temperature throughout the journey to ensure compliance and quality. 

• Regulatory Complexity: From FDA import regulations to local delivery ordinances, staying compliant is essential. 

• Port Delays: Congestion at major ports like LA and Long Beach can disrupt timelines if drayage and inland transport aren’t managed proactively. 

• Consumer Expectations: Speed, traceability, and convenience are no longer optional—they're expected, even for international brands. 

Without a 3PL that understands these pressures, even the best product can be delayed, spoiled, or fail to reach the right customer. 

Why Source Logistics is the Ideal Partner 

When it comes to overcoming these obstacles, Source Logistics doesn’t just provide transportation, we provide confidence. Here are five ways we’re helping LATAM brands navigate the supply chain landscape in the U.S.: 

1. Integrated, End-to-End Capabilities

Source Logistics is an award-winning 3PL partner, offering a full suite of integrated supply chain services. Our comprehensive transportation services are backed by 5.6M+ sq. ft. of strategically located, temperature-controlled warehouse space across key U.S. logistics hubs, with refrigerated and frozen storage capabilities to ensure your products are protected at every step. 

Result: Faster turnarounds, lower hand-off risk, and simplified coordination under one roof.

2. Reach 75% of the U.S. Population Within 24 Hours

With 24 storage locations in key logistics hubs across the U.S. and smart route optimization, we help our customers scale quickly while meeting consumer expectations for fast delivery. Our ability to service major urban and regional markets within a day gives your brand a competitive edge. 

Result: Improved delivery times and enhanced customer satisfaction.

3. Cultural Fluency and LATAM Expertise

We’ve spent over 25 years helping Latin American brands enter and expand in the U.S. market. That means we don’t just speak your language, we understand your goals, values, and operational needs. 

Result: A true partnership that feels like an extension of your team.

4. Advanced Technology for Full Visibility

From our Transport Management System (TMS) to real-time tracking and automated notifications from our Customer Portal, Source Logistics ensures you and your customers always know where your shipments are. 

Result: Greater transparency, fewer surprises, and easier decision-making.

5. Award-Winning Service and Proven Reliability

With a 93.8% customer retention rate and a reputation for personalized service, we are trusted by some of the world’s most recognized food, beverage, health, and cosmetic brands.  

Result: A logistics partner you can trust and grow with.

Partner with Source Logistics for Success 

Whether you need to move bulk shipments across state lines, manage container pickups from ports, or deliver chilled goods to a local retailer, Source Logistics has the infrastructure, expertise, and agility to make it happen. Our integrated approach simplifies your supply chain, reduces costs, and protects your brand at every mile. 

With tailored solutions across transport, warehousing, and fulfillment—and a team that genuinely cares about your success, Source Logistics is the right partner to help you thrive in the U.S. market. 

Ready to Streamline Your Freight Strategy? 

Join the many, successful, international brands that trust Source Logistics to navigate the complexities of U.S. freight and logistics. Contact our team today to learn how we can support your transport needs with custom solutions that deliver results.