Tariff threats between the US and Canada, pressure on global AI supply chains, and shifting climate policies in the UK are all hitting trade routes and customs desks at the same time. That mix is creating fresh winners and losers among North American cross border trade and logistics stocks. This article walks through three stocks from our screener that appear well positioned for these cross currents and explains what their exposure to this news could mean for your portfolio.

The three stocks covered below are just a sample from this theme. The full screen surfaced 22 more North American cross border trade and logistics companies with equally compelling stories that are not included here. If you want to identify and analyze the highest conviction opportunities in this space, head straight to the North American Cross-Border Trade and Logistics Service Providers screener.

Proficient Auto Logistics (PAL)

Proficient Auto Logistics provides auto transportation and logistics services across North America, moving finished vehicles from factories, ports, and rail yards to dealerships and other end customers. It runs a large owned fleet of around 800 transport trucks and trailers that serve automakers, EV producers, dealers, auctions, rental fleets, and leasing companies. The company is relatively small, with a market cap of about US$154.3 million.

Proficient Auto Logistics operates at the point where tariff policy intersects with actual vehicle flows. Complex US Canada trade talks and shifting auto production routes are already pushing automakers to rethink how and where they move cars, and Proficient is pitching its network and technology as part of the solution. Some analysts note that the company could benefit if it can turn current contract wins and acquisitions into profitable growth, but recent losses and heavy reliance on OEM contracts keep pressure on pricing and execution. For investors who want exposure to cross border auto logistics as trade rules evolve, this is a story that may warrant closer examination before the full picture is reflected in the share price.

Proficient Auto Logistics sits at the crossroads of new trade rules and reworked auto supply chains, yet the real story may be hidden in the 4 key rewards and 2 important warning signs

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OPENLANE (OPLN)

OPENLANE runs a digital marketplace that connects dealers, fleets and automakers to buy and sell wholesale used vehicles, with add on services like inspections, reconditioning, transport and financing. Most of its US$2.1b revenue comes from the Marketplace segment at about US$1.6b, while the Finance segment contributes roughly US$432 million through floorplan lending and related services. The stock has a market value of about US$4.4b.

OPENLANE sits at the point where cross border vehicle flows and digital auto trading meet, which is why tariff headlines matter so much for this stock. The core marketplace is already fully online and is evolving through higher commercial volumes, richer inspection tools and tighter links to its finance arm. Together, these elements can support stronger margins if volumes hold up. At the same time, the company is still working through risks such as regulatory changes around tariffs and digital taxes in Canada, reliance on external borrowing, and potential dilution from ongoing equity activity. For investors following North American trade friction and higher documentation needs between the US and Canada, OPENLANE offers a focused way to gain exposure to these trends while the long term balance between growth and these risks continues to be reflected in the share price.

OPENLANE’s fully digital wholesale model could be masking a much bigger story in cross border volumes and fees. Get the full picture in the analysis report for OPENLANE and see how one key risk could flip the script.

Universal Logistics Holdings (ULH)

Universal Logistics Holdings runs a mix of contract logistics sites, intermodal drayage and trucking operations across North America, handling everything from auto parts and metals to consumer goods. Most of its revenue comes from Contract Logistics at about US$1.1b, with Trucking at roughly US$246 million and Intermodal at about US$209 million, while smaller segment adjustments and inter segment eliminations round out the total. The stock has a market value of around US$509 million.

Universal Logistics Holdings sits in the middle of tariff noise and nearshoring plans, helping manufacturers and retailers re route freight, manage border friction and rethink plant to port flows. The company’s deep ties to automotive customers, growing Mexico presence and contract logistics footprint give it clear leverage to any increase in routing complexity and customs work. At the same time, investors also have to weigh recent index removals, balance sheet pressure and an intermodal business that has felt tariff related volume swings. For readers looking at cross border logistics as a long term theme, the mix of low P/S, improving earnings and concentrated sector exposure suggests this stock may merit a closer look rather than a quick pass.

Universal Logistics Holdings appears to be a cross border freight story where its low P/S ratio and concentrated sector exposure might be masking something much bigger. See how the 2 key rewards and 3 important warning signs (1 is major!) could change how you think about its next chapter.

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This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.