Schneider Reports Intermodal Growth in Mexico Amid Tariff Uncertainty
Schneider National has seen a significant increase in its first-quarter intermodal volumes, driven by rising shipping activity in western Mexico. The surge in demand was partly influenced by customers pulling cargo forward in anticipation of ongoing tariff uncertainties, though Rourke noted that the long-term sustainability of this demand remains uncertain. Despite this, Schneider expressed confidence in its performance for the quarter, though Rourke emphasized that future volumes will depend heavily on the magnitude, duration, and timing of trade disruptions, which remain unpredictable.
Prior to the recent tariff tensions, Schneider had invested strategically and formed partnerships to strengthen its logistics services between the U.S. and Mexico. In April 2023, the company partnered with Canadian Pacific Kansas City to expand its intermodal network across the upper Midwest and Mexico. Rourke highlighted that this partnership provides a competitive edge in a challenging environment.
Industry analysts agree that investments in Mexico’s logistics infrastructure remain justified for the medium and long term. Marc Iampieri, a partner at AlixPartners, noted that Mexico is a critical trade partner for the U.S., accounting for over 60% of U.S. trade with the EU, Canada, and China in 2024. Mexico’s trade volume included approximately $334 billion in U.S. exports and $506 billion in imports, representing 15.8% of total U.S. trade.
Iampieri believes that the current volatility presents an opportunity for companies already operating in Mexico to solidify their positions and prepare for a potential rebound once trade uncertainties subside. He predicts that more companies will continue investing in Mexico’s infrastructure and logistics capabilities, including trucking, intermodal, rail, and warehousing services, as demand for exports and domestic logistics grows.
Overall, the long-term trend favors increased logistics activity in Mexico, supported by sustained trade relations and rising export demands. Companies with a strategic presence in Mexico are well-positioned to capitalize on future growth, regardless of short-term trade tensions.
