U.S. transportation officials said they are working this month to meet a federal audit’s requirements before starting the cross-border pilot trucking program with Mexico, including plan details concerning monitoring and tracking devices on Mexican participant trucks.

The U.S. Office of Inspector General just released the Aug. 19 audit of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s pilot program. The OIG reported the agency had adequate border inspections, but more action is necessary to meet U.S. regulations and standards.

Federal law requires the OIG report to Congress on the program. The agency must address the office’s concerns before participating Mexican trucks begin crossing the border.

On Aug. 10, the FMCSA’s response to the report noted action or plans to satisfy these requirements before the end of September, when the report is expected to be sent to Congress.

The OIG audited the program from April to July. U.S. and Mexican officials signed a memorandum of understanding July 6 to settle the long–haul, cross–border trucking dispute between the two nations. Two days later, the FMCSA published a Federal Register notice of intent to proceed with the program.

The FMCSA said it has begun soliciting proposals for electronic monitoring devices and tracking service it will require for Mexican participating trucks for three years. In April, it had estimated the total cost at $2.5 million, but the OIG puts that price at $3.2 million. Although the agency will retain ownership, its plans to fund these devices have drawn criticism.