Key Insights
The Mexico logistics market, valued at approximately $XX million in 2025, is experiencing robust growth, projected to maintain a CAGR exceeding 3.50% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. The burgeoning e-commerce sector in Mexico is significantly increasing demand for efficient last-mile delivery solutions, particularly within the courier, express, and parcel (CEP) segment. Simultaneously, growth in key end-user industries like manufacturing, construction, and oil & gas contributes to higher freight volumes. Furthermore, Mexico's strategic geographic location facilitates cross-border trade with the US and Canada, creating further opportunities within the logistics sector. However, challenges persist. Infrastructure limitations, particularly in road networks and port capacity, can hinder efficient transportation and lead to increased costs. Regulatory complexities and security concerns also pose obstacles to seamless operations. Despite these hurdles, the market's inherent growth potential, driven by robust economic activity and expanding international trade, promises continued expansion. The diverse logistics services offered, including temperature-controlled transportation and specialized handling for various industries, present opportunities for both established global players and local logistics providers to capitalize on market needs and improve supply chain efficiency within the country.
Segmentation analysis reveals a substantial share attributed to the CEP segment, reflecting the growth of e-commerce. The manufacturing and construction sectors drive significant demand for freight transportation services. Within regional distribution, Mexico's central location within North America gives it a clear advantage for regional trade, attracting significant investments in logistics infrastructure and technology upgrades. While challenges related to infrastructure and regulation need to be addressed, ongoing government initiatives focused on improving logistics infrastructure and streamlining regulations suggest a positive outlook for the long-term sustainability and growth of the Mexican logistics market. The competitive landscape is characterized by a blend of international giants like DHL and FedEx, alongside prominent domestic players like Estafeta Mexicana and Grupo TMM, indicating a dynamic and evolving market structure.

Mexico Logistics Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Mexico Logistics Market, covering market dynamics, industry trends, leading segments, key players, and future growth opportunities. With a study period spanning 2019-2033, a base year of 2025, and a forecast period of 2025-2033, this report is an essential resource for industry stakeholders, investors, and businesses operating or planning to enter the Mexican logistics sector. The market is estimated at xx Million in 2025 and expected to grow at a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period.
Mexico Logistics Market Market Dynamics & Concentration
The Mexican logistics market is characterized by a dynamic interplay of factors influencing its concentration, innovation, and regulatory landscape. Market concentration is moderate, with several large multinational players like DHL Group, FedEx, and Kuehne + Nagel competing alongside numerous smaller, regional companies. The market share of the top 5 players is estimated at xx%. Innovation is driven by the need for greater efficiency, transparency, and sustainability within supply chains, leading to significant investments in technology such as AI and automation. The regulatory framework, while evolving, presents both opportunities and challenges, influencing everything from customs procedures to transportation regulations. Product substitutes, particularly in the last-mile delivery space, are emerging and impacting market dynamics. End-user trends, particularly the growth of e-commerce, are driving demand for faster, more reliable, and customized logistics solutions. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity has been steadily increasing in recent years, with xx M&A deals recorded between 2019 and 2024, reflecting consolidation trends within the sector.
- Market Concentration: Moderate, with a top 5 market share of xx%.
- Innovation Drivers: Efficiency, transparency, sustainability.
- Regulatory Framework: Evolving, impacting customs and transportation.
- Product Substitutes: Emerging in last-mile delivery.
- End-User Trends: E-commerce growth driving demand for faster delivery.
- M&A Activity: xx deals between 2019-2024.
Mexico Logistics Market Industry Trends & Analysis
The Mexico logistics market is experiencing robust growth, fueled by several key factors. The expanding manufacturing sector, particularly in the automotive and aerospace industries, is a significant driver, demanding efficient and reliable logistics solutions. The burgeoning e-commerce sector further fuels this demand, requiring sophisticated last-mile delivery capabilities. Technological disruptions, including the adoption of AI, blockchain, and IoT, are revolutionizing supply chain management, leading to greater transparency, traceability, and efficiency. Consumer preferences are shifting towards faster and more convenient delivery options, putting pressure on logistics providers to adapt and innovate. The competitive landscape is intensifying, with established players facing challenges from agile, technology-driven startups. The market penetration of advanced logistics technologies is gradually increasing, with xx% of logistics companies currently employing AI-driven solutions.

Leading Markets & Segments in Mexico Logistics Market
The Manufacturing segment dominates the end-user industry landscape, followed by Wholesale and Retail Trade. The high concentration of manufacturing facilities in Mexico, combined with the robust growth of e-commerce, drives significant demand for logistics services across various functions. Geographically, major metropolitan areas like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey represent crucial hubs for logistics activity, benefiting from developed infrastructure and proximity to key markets.
- Dominant End-User Industry: Manufacturing, driven by strong industrial output.
- Fastest-Growing End-User Industry: Wholesale and Retail Trade, fueled by e-commerce growth.
- Leading Logistics Function: Courier, Express, and Parcel (CEP), benefiting from e-commerce expansion.
- Key Regional Hubs: Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.
- Growth Drivers: Strong manufacturing base, robust e-commerce growth, improving infrastructure.
Mexico Logistics Market Product Developments
Significant product developments are reshaping the Mexican logistics market. The integration of advanced technologies, such as AI-powered route optimization and real-time tracking systems, is enhancing efficiency and transparency. The emergence of automated warehouses and delivery robots is streamlining operations and reducing costs. Innovative solutions for temperature-controlled transportation are addressing the needs of the food and pharmaceutical industries. These advancements are improving delivery times, reducing costs, and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Key Drivers of Mexico Logistics Market Growth
Several factors contribute to the growth of the Mexico logistics market. The expansion of the manufacturing sector, especially in automotive and aerospace, creates a significant demand for reliable logistics. The rise of e-commerce necessitates efficient last-mile delivery solutions. Government investments in infrastructure, such as improved roads and ports, facilitate smoother transportation. Technological advancements, such as AI-powered optimization and automation, enhance efficiency and reduce costs. The implementation of free trade agreements further stimulates cross-border trade and related logistics activities.
Challenges in the Mexico Logistics Market Market
The Mexican logistics market faces several challenges. Infrastructure limitations, particularly in certain regions, create bottlenecks and delays. Security concerns, particularly regarding cargo theft, increase costs and risks. Regulatory complexities and bureaucratic hurdles can hinder efficient operations. Competition is intense, with both domestic and international players vying for market share. These challenges necessitate continued investment in infrastructure, strengthened security measures, and streamlined regulatory frameworks to optimize market efficiency. The estimated cost of these challenges amounts to xx Million annually.
Emerging Opportunities in Mexico Logistics Market
Significant opportunities exist in the Mexican logistics market. The growth of e-commerce creates demand for specialized last-mile delivery services and innovative solutions such as drone delivery. The increasing adoption of technological advancements such as AI, blockchain, and automation provides opportunities for improved efficiency and cost reduction. Strategic partnerships between logistics providers and e-commerce platforms can unlock significant synergies. Expansion into underserved regions with growing economic activity presents considerable market potential.
Leading Players in the Mexico Logistics Market Sector
- DB Schenker
- Hellmann Worldwide Logistics
- Nippon Express Holdings
- DHL Group
- Accel Logística
- DSV A/S (De Sammensluttede Vognmænd af Air and Sea)
- Trayecto GTM- Larmex
- Transportes Marva
- Penske Logistics
- FedEx
- Estafeta Mexicana S A de C V
- Kuehne + Nagel
- Grupo SID
- Transportes Lar-Mex
- Fomento Económico Mexicano S A B de C V (Solistica)
- Agility Public Warehousing Company K S C P
- SEKO Bansard
- Grupo TMM
- C H Robinson
- TIBA Group
- Traxion
- Grupo Mexico
- Tresguerra
- Ryder System Inc
- Aeromexico Cargo
- Grupo FH
Key Milestones in Mexico Logistics Market Industry
- November 2023: DB Schenker partnered with American Airlines Cargo to launch an API connection for streamlined airfreight booking.
- January 2024: Kuehne + Nagel announced its Book & Claim insetting solution for electric vehicles to enhance decarbonization efforts.
- February 2024: C.H. Robinson developed AI-powered technology to optimize freight shipping appointments, significantly improving efficiency.
Strategic Outlook for Mexico Logistics Market Market
The future of the Mexico logistics market is bright, driven by continued growth in manufacturing, e-commerce, and government investment in infrastructure. Opportunities abound for companies that can leverage technology to enhance efficiency, transparency, and sustainability. Strategic partnerships and M&A activity will likely continue to shape the competitive landscape, leading to further consolidation and innovation. Companies that can adapt to evolving consumer preferences and regulatory changes will be best positioned to capitalize on the significant growth potential of this dynamic market.
Mexico Logistics Market Segmentation
-
1. End User Industry
- 1.1. Agriculture, Fishing, and Forestry
- 1.2. Construction
- 1.3. Manufacturing
- 1.4. Oil and Gas, Mining and Quarrying
- 1.5. Wholesale and Retail Trade
- 1.6. Others
-
2. Logistics Function
-
2.1. Courier, Express, and Parcel (CEP)
-
2.1.1. By Destination Type
- 2.1.1.1. Domestic
- 2.1.1.2. International
-
2.1.1. By Destination Type
-
2.2. Freight Forwarding
-
2.2.1. By Mode Of Transport
- 2.2.1.1. Air
- 2.2.1.2. Sea and Inland Waterways
- 2.2.1.3. Others
-
2.2.1. By Mode Of Transport
-
2.3. Freight Transport
- 2.3.1. Pipelines
- 2.3.2. Rail
- 2.3.3. Road
-
2.4. Warehousing and Storage
-
2.4.1. By Temperature Control
- 2.4.1.1. Non-Temperature Controlled
-
2.4.1. By Temperature Control
- 2.5. Other Services
-
2.1. Courier, Express, and Parcel (CEP)
Mexico Logistics Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Mexico

Mexico Logistics Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of > 3.50% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. 4.; Increasing volume of international trade4.; The rise of trade agreements between nations
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. 4.; Surge in fuel costs affecting the market4.; Increasing trade tension
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Mexico Logistics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User Industry
- 5.1.1. Agriculture, Fishing, and Forestry
- 5.1.2. Construction
- 5.1.3. Manufacturing
- 5.1.4. Oil and Gas, Mining and Quarrying
- 5.1.5. Wholesale and Retail Trade
- 5.1.6. Others
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Logistics Function
- 5.2.1. Courier, Express, and Parcel (CEP)
- 5.2.1.1. By Destination Type
- 5.2.1.1.1. Domestic
- 5.2.1.1.2. International
- 5.2.1.1. By Destination Type
- 5.2.2. Freight Forwarding
- 5.2.2.1. By Mode Of Transport
- 5.2.2.1.1. Air
- 5.2.2.1.2. Sea and Inland Waterways
- 5.2.2.1.3. Others
- 5.2.2.1. By Mode Of Transport
- 5.2.3. Freight Transport
- 5.2.3.1. Pipelines
- 5.2.3.2. Rail
- 5.2.3.3. Road
- 5.2.4. Warehousing and Storage
- 5.2.4.1. By Temperature Control
- 5.2.4.1.1. Non-Temperature Controlled
- 5.2.4.1. By Temperature Control
- 5.2.5. Other Services
- 5.2.1. Courier, Express, and Parcel (CEP)
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Mexico
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User Industry
- 6. Competitive Analysis
- 6.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 6.2. Company Profiles
- 6.2.1 DB Schenker
- 6.2.1.1. Overview
- 6.2.1.2. Products
- 6.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.2 Hellmann Worldwide Logistics
- 6.2.2.1. Overview
- 6.2.2.2. Products
- 6.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.3 Nippon Express Holdings
- 6.2.3.1. Overview
- 6.2.3.2. Products
- 6.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.4 DHL Group
- 6.2.4.1. Overview
- 6.2.4.2. Products
- 6.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.5 Accel Logística
- 6.2.5.1. Overview
- 6.2.5.2. Products
- 6.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.6 DSV A/S (De Sammensluttede Vognmænd af Air and Sea)
- 6.2.6.1. Overview
- 6.2.6.2. Products
- 6.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.7 Trayecto GTM- Larmex
- 6.2.7.1. Overview
- 6.2.7.2. Products
- 6.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.8 Transportes Marva
- 6.2.8.1. Overview
- 6.2.8.2. Products
- 6.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.9 Penske Logistics
- 6.2.9.1. Overview
- 6.2.9.2. Products
- 6.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.10 FedEx
- 6.2.10.1. Overview
- 6.2.10.2. Products
- 6.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.11 Estafeta Mexicana S A de C V
- 6.2.11.1. Overview
- 6.2.11.2. Products
- 6.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.12 Kuehne + Nagel
- 6.2.12.1. Overview
- 6.2.12.2. Products
- 6.2.12.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.12.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.12.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.13 Grupo SID
- 6.2.13.1. Overview
- 6.2.13.2. Products
- 6.2.13.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.13.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.13.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.14 Transportes Lar-Mex
- 6.2.14.1. Overview
- 6.2.14.2. Products
- 6.2.14.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.14.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.14.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.15 Fomento Económico Mexicano S A B de C V (Solistica)
- 6.2.15.1. Overview
- 6.2.15.2. Products
- 6.2.15.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.15.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.15.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.16 Agility Public Warehousing Company K S C P
- 6.2.16.1. Overview
- 6.2.16.2. Products
- 6.2.16.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.16.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.16.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.17 SEKO Bansard
- 6.2.17.1. Overview
- 6.2.17.2. Products
- 6.2.17.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.17.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.17.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.18 Grupo TMM
- 6.2.18.1. Overview
- 6.2.18.2. Products
- 6.2.18.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.18.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.18.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.19 C H Robinson
- 6.2.19.1. Overview
- 6.2.19.2. Products
- 6.2.19.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.19.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.19.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.20 TIBA Group
- 6.2.20.1. Overview
- 6.2.20.2. Products
- 6.2.20.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.20.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.20.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.21 Traxion
- 6.2.21.1. Overview
- 6.2.21.2. Products
- 6.2.21.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.21.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.21.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.22 Grupo Mexico
- 6.2.22.1. Overview
- 6.2.22.2. Products
- 6.2.22.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.22.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.22.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.23 Tresguerra
- 6.2.23.1. Overview
- 6.2.23.2. Products
- 6.2.23.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.23.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.23.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.24 Ryder System Inc
- 6.2.24.1. Overview
- 6.2.24.2. Products
- 6.2.24.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.24.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.24.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.25 Aeromexico Cargo
- 6.2.25.1. Overview
- 6.2.25.2. Products
- 6.2.25.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.25.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.25.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.26 Grupo FH
- 6.2.26.1. Overview
- 6.2.26.2. Products
- 6.2.26.3. SWOT Analysis
- 6.2.26.4. Recent Developments
- 6.2.26.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 6.2.1 DB Schenker
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Mexico Logistics Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Mexico Logistics Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Mexico Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Mexico Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Mexico Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Logistics Function 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Mexico Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Mexico Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Mexico Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Mexico Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Logistics Function 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Mexico Logistics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Mexico Logistics Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 3.50%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Mexico Logistics Market?
Key companies in the market include DB Schenker, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, Nippon Express Holdings, DHL Group, Accel Logística, DSV A/S (De Sammensluttede Vognmænd af Air and Sea), Trayecto GTM- Larmex, Transportes Marva, Penske Logistics, FedEx, Estafeta Mexicana S A de C V, Kuehne + Nagel, Grupo SID, Transportes Lar-Mex, Fomento Económico Mexicano S A B de C V (Solistica), Agility Public Warehousing Company K S C P, SEKO Bansard, Grupo TMM, C H Robinson, TIBA Group, Traxion, Grupo Mexico, Tresguerra, Ryder System Inc, Aeromexico Cargo, Grupo FH.
3. What are the main segments of the Mexico Logistics Market?
The market segments include End User Industry, Logistics Function.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
4.; Increasing volume of international trade4.; The rise of trade agreements between nations.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; Surge in fuel costs affecting the market4.; Increasing trade tension.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
February 2024: C.H. Robinson has developed a new technology that creates a major efficiency in freight shipping: removing the work of scheduling an appointment at the place where a load needs to be picked up and scheduling another appointment where the load needs to be delivered. The technology also uses artificial intelligence to determine the optimal appointment, based on transit-time data from C.H. Robinson’s millions of shipments across 300,000 shipping lanes.January 2024: Kuehne + Nagel has announced its Book & Claim insetting solution for electric vehicles, to improve its decarbonization solutions. Developing Book & Claim insetting solutions for road freight was a strategic priority for Kuehne + Nagel. Customers who use Kuehne + Nagel's road transport services can now claim the carbon reductions of electric trucks when it is not possible to physically move their goods on these vehicles.November 2023: DB Schenker, in partnership with American Airlines Cargo, announces an advancement in airfreight operations. The introduction of an API (Application Programming Interface) connection, introduced on November 14th, 2023, marks the next step in digitalizing and streamlining airfreight booking processes.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Mexico Logistics Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Mexico Logistics Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Mexico Logistics Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Mexico Logistics Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence