WASHINGTON — Trade using surface transportation between the U.S. and NAFTA partners Canada and Mexico fell 2.1 percent in October 2008 from the previous year, reaching $72.7 billion, although it did rise slightly (1.2 percent from) the previous month in ’08.

According to the U.S. DOT, U.S.-Canada surface transportation trade, specifically, was down 6.1 percent from 2007. The value of imports carried by truck was 17.5 percent lower in October 2008 compared to October 2007, while the value of exports carried by truck was 9.5 percent lower.

Michigan led all states in surface trade with Canada in October with $5.3 billion.

The value of total U.S. surface transportation trade with Canada and Mexico was up 38.8 percent compared to October 2003, and up 74.9 percent compared to October 1998, a period of 10 years. Imports in October were up 75 percent compared to October 1998, while exports were up 74.8 percent.

Surface transportation consists largely of freight movements by truck, rail and pipeline.

About 88 percent of U.S. trade by value with Canada and Mexico moves on land.