Duluth is a city located in northeastern Minnesota, on the westernmost point of Lake Superior. It is known as the "Gateway to the Great Lakes" and is a major port for freight transportation. The city's port is the largest on the Great Lakes, handling over 35 million tons of cargo annually. Duluth's strategic location on Lake Superior has made it a hub for shipping goods such as iron ore, coal, grain, and timber.

The history of freight transportation in Duluth dates back to the late 19th century when the city became a key player in the iron ore industry. The discovery of vast iron ore deposits in the Mesabi Range, located just west of Duluth, led to a boom in mining and shipping. The city's harbor was expanded to accommodate larger ships, and railroads were built to transport the iron ore from the mines to the port. Today, Duluth continues to be a major center for the shipping industry, with a diverse range of cargo passing through its port.

Mission is a city located in Hidalgo County, Texas, and is part of the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission metropolitan area. It is situated along the Rio Grande, which forms the border between the United States and Mexico. The city was founded in 1908 and is named after the La Lomita Mission, a historic Catholic mission located within its borders.

One interesting aspect of Mission is its proximity to the Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge, one of the busiest land ports of entry between the United States and Mexico. This bridge facilitates the movement of goods and people between the two countries, making Mission a strategic location for freight transportation. The city is also served by the Union Pacific Railroad, which provides additional transportation options for businesses in the area.