Finding the right warehouse in Mexico can feel overwhelming, but with the right programs and partners, nearshoring becomes a competitive advantage. Located next to the United States, one of the world’s largest consumer markets, Mexico offers unmatched proximity for nearshoring. 

Accessible facilities and efficient distribution are needed to store goods without paying duties until ready to enter the local market, reducing upfront costs. By partnering with logistics providers and warehousing solutions, you can secure scalable options without heavy capital investment.

Border crossings enable efficient northbound and southbound movement for distribution needs when supported by strong planning and partnerships. At the same time, access to ports on both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts makes Mexico ideal for global trade. There are specific warehousing and distribution solutions to keep in mind when operating in Mexico to make the most of your supply chain.

Storing Your Goods Under the IMMEX Program  

The Industria Manufacturera, Maquiladora y de Servicios de Exportación (IMMEX) Program is a Mexican government initiative that enables companies engaged in export-oriented manufacturing or services to temporarily import raw materials, components, and even machinery without paying import duties or taxes. These benefits apply if the imported goods are used in production for export and the finished products leave Mexico for consumption abroad. Goods typically enter Mexico as temporary imports for up to 18 months, and all imported materials must be used exclusively for export-focused production or services.

Beyond location advantages, operating in Mexico offers value in programs like IMMEX, which demand strict customs compliance. Program benefits only apply when companies meet strict requirements. Failure to comply can result in loss of eligibility and costly supply chain disruptions.

Leveraging RFE Facilities for Strategic Storage  

A Recinto Fiscalizado Estratégico (RFE) facility is a designated customs-controlled zone within Mexico that allows companies to store, handle, and even transform goods under special tax and duty benefits. Unlike IMMEX, which is a program for temporary imports, RFE facilities provide flexibility for businesses that need to keep goods in Mexico without immediately importing them into the national territory. Import duties and taxes apply only if the inventory exceeds the permitted timeframe, making RFE ideal for inventory staging, distribution, or light transformation before final import or export.

Whether leveraging IMMEX, RFE, or both programs, choosing the right option is critical. Misalignment can lead to compliance risks and lost savings, making it essential to align your choice with operational goals from the start.

Mexico’s Regional Logistics Strength

With its diverse industrial regions, Mexico offers a strong foundation for nearshoring. Mexico City drives retail logistics with high-volume consumer demand, while Guadalajara powers tech and electronics manufacturing through precision-driven supply chains. Monterrey stands out as an industrial and automotive hub, supported by robust infrastructure and foreign investment. Queretaro strengthens this network with its specialization in the automotive and aerospace industries, offering advanced manufacturing capabilities and skilled labor. On the Pacific coast, Manzanillo serves as a critical gateway for raw materials and global trade.

Together, these regions create a balanced network that supports nearshoring strategies across multiple sectors, demonstrating extensive knowledge and capabilities to serve a wide range of industries exploring opportunities in Mexico.

Expeditors Warehousing & Distribution Establishment in Mexico

Expeditors operates across Mexico with facilities located in key regions, providing warehousing options designed to fit different operational models. These include dedicated spaces and shared environments for cost efficiency. Our global network connects supply chain activities with related services such as transportation and customs compliance.

We leverage variable-cost models through multi-customer facilities and optimized asset utilization, supported by 17 warehousing locations and over 1.3 million square feet across the country. Our proprietary Warehouse Management System (WMS), called EXP.O Distribution, delivers real-time visibility and ensures consistent performance. Operations are managed by trained logistics professionals and established partnerships to maintain control and quality.  

• Multi-Channel Fulfillment: Handling orders from retail, e-commerce, and wholesale to streamline inventory and order processing.
• Cross-Dock: Moving goods directly from inbound to outbound transport to reduce handling time and accelerate delivery.
• Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI): Managing inventory at customer sites to improve availability and reduce carrying costs.
• Transload: Transferring cargo between transport modes (e.g., ocean to truck) to minimize storage and optimize transit.
• Upstream Fulfillment: Staging products near manufacturing or sourcing points to shorten lead times and improve responsiveness.
• Value-Added Solutions: Adding packaging, labeling, and other enhancements for operational flexibility.

When considering nearshoring opportunities in Mexico, it is important to explore the country’s entire logistics landscape, beyond warehousing and distribution solutions. We’ve recently published various articles to assist with this exploration. Start with “Discovering Opportunity in Mexico’s Logistics Landscape” to gain deeper insights into Mexico’s capabilities and how they can support your supply chain strategy.

Then, dive into “Navigate Trade in Mexico: Customs Compliance and Strategic Partnerships” to learn why working with a knowledgeable and experienced broker is key to successful import operations.

Finally, explore “US/Mexico Cross-Border Ground Transportation” to understand the role of efficient, secure, and compliant ground transport in connecting your supply chain across borders, highlighting challenges and solutions for seamless movement between the U.S. and Mexico. 

Contact your local Expeditors representative to learn how our extensive warehousing and distribution solutions in Mexico can provide flexibility and scalability to your cross-border operations.