ATRI Launches Survey on Illegal Cabotage: Help Document the Problem

Key Details The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) is collecting driver and carrier feedback on unauthorized cabotage occurring across U.S. highways. The survey, launched May 14, 2026, aims to identify where and how often foreign truck drivers operate illegally within U.S. borders. What's Happening Cabotage laws restrict Mexican and Canadian B-1 visa holders from making multiple deliveries between two U.S. domestic points. While these drivers can legally make one pickup or delivery, evidence suggests some are conducting ongoing business throughout the country, violating federal regulations. Why It Matters Illegal cabotage undercuts wages and freight rates for U.S. truck drivers and fleets. Kaitlyn Holmecki, Director of International Policy for the American Trucking Associations, notes that these low-cost operations create unfair competition in the domestic trucking market. Enforcement Updates Recent Border Patrol actions show increased cabotage enforcement. A Mexican driver's visa was revoked after transporting goods from Nogales, Arizona to Laredo, Texas. Similar violations were discovered in March involving produce shipments from Yuma, Arizona to Washington state. Your Role ATRI is confidentially surveying drivers and carriers about cabotage sightings. Your input will inform research on cabotage's economic impact on the trucking industry. All responses remain strictly confidential.