What is the significance of train crossings?
Nogales has the oldest rail crossing of any border port of entry along the U.S.-Mexico border. Since opening in 1882, the rail has served primarily mining and agricultural industries. At present, one of the most important commodities is auto manufacturing at the Ford Company in Hermosillo, Sonora. Vehicles built at the plant are shipped via rail to U.S. and Canadian markets. Rail also transports bulk commodities such as cement, and garbanzo beans. The dynamics of train crossings, and number of rail containers through the Nogales border port of entry reflect the composite effects of both trade between Mexico, Canada and the U.S., as well as between Arizona and Mexico.
What is measured?
Data are provided for the number of northbound trains. Zero values may indicate the lack of a rail crossing through a specific port, or lack of facilities to record data. The total volume is approximately double the northbound volume. Note: Nogales is the only Arizona BPOE that can facilitate train crossings.