NIAGARA FALLS, Ont. — Trucking security experts gathered in Niagara Falls last week to discuss the challenges of cross-border trucking in the post 9/11 world.

Among the topics discussed was the reluctance of truck drivers to haul freight across the border, thanks to terrorism security precautions.

“More and more drivers are refusing to transport cross-border freight,” Linda Yates, a trucking expert from Akron, Ohio was quoted as saying in the Buffalo News. “Many don’t want to get involved in background checks needed for express trucking.”

She was referring to the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program, and suggested the trucking industry requires a "new generation" of driver who is willing to undergo extensive background checks.

Niagara Falls Bridge Commission general manager, Thomas Garlock, was also on-hand and he said backlogs on the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge will be reduced when a new FAST lane opens at the crossing in November.

William McLeod of the Department of Homeland Security warned attendees that cargo containers are a prime target for terrorists and urged carriers to use tracking devices and thoroughly inspect seals and bolts for signs of tampering.

“If you think your shipments are immune, you’re mistaken,” McLeod warned. “Since 9/11, there’s no such thing as business as usual.”