Davenport is a city located in eastern Iowa, along the Mississippi River. It is the third largest city in the state and is part of the Quad Cities metropolitan area, which also includes the cities of Bettendorf, Iowa, and Rock Island and Moline in Illinois. Davenport was founded in 1836 and quickly grew as a major trading hub due to its location on the river. In the late 19th century, the city became a center for the lumber industry, with many sawmills and factories being established along the riverfront.

One of the key factors that contributed to Davenport's growth and prosperity was its role in freight transportation. The city became an important transportation hub, with railroads and steamboats connecting it to other parts of the country. The Mississippi River served as a major artery for transporting goods, and Davenport's location made it a key stop along the river. The city's riverfront was lined with warehouses and docks, where goods were unloaded from steamboats and transferred onto trains for further distribution. Today, Davenport remains an important transportation hub, with a modern port facility that handles a variety of cargoes, including agricultural products, steel, and machinery.

El Centro is a city located in Imperial County, California. It is the largest city in the Imperial Valley and serves as the county seat. The city has a rich history, dating back to the early 1900s when it was founded as a trading post for the Southern Pacific Railroad. El Centro's strategic location along major transportation routes, including Interstate 8 and State Route 86, has made it a hub for freight transportation in the region.

One of the key industries in El Centro is agriculture, with the city being surrounded by fertile farmland. The region is known for its production of crops such as lettuce, carrots, and broccoli. The proximity to the Mexican border also makes El Centro an important gateway for international trade, with trucks and trains carrying goods between the United States and Mexico passing through the city.

El Centro is also home to the Imperial County Airport, which plays a vital role in freight transportation. The airport has a cargo facility that handles air freight shipments, providing a convenient option for businesses in the area. Additionally, the city is served by the Union Pacific Railroad, which operates a rail yard in El Centro that handles the transportation of goods by train.