CUSTOMER TARIFF ADVISORY
- U.S.–China Tariff Pause: On May 12th, the U.S. and China agreed to a 90-day tariff reduction aimed at easing trade tensions.
- New Universal Tariff: A 10% tariff now applies to most imports into the U.S., effective April 5.
- Section 301 Maritime Action: U.S. targets China’s shipbuilding and logistics sectors with new tariffs and port service fees.
- De Minimis Exemption Update: The U.S. has revised its treatment of low-value shipments from China under the de minimis rule, implementing changes that increase the cost of importing these goods starting May 14th.
- Consumer Price Impact: Modest price increases in April may accelerate with continued trade policy shifts
Here’s How Imperative Logistics Group Can Support You:
- Tariff Impact Guidance: We help assess how the new tariffs affect your shipments and explore cost-saving alternatives.
- Smart Sourcing & Routing: Leverage our network to reduce exposure and keep goods moving.
- Compliance & Brokerage Support: Stay ahead of regulatory changes with our customs expertise.
- Reliable Service: We deliver time-definite logistics across all modes.
If you’re unsure how the new tariffs affect you, contact us. for expert guidance. We’re here to help you navigate the current market turmoil with clarity and confidence.
Belgium is preparing for a National Day of Action on May 20, with the ACOD union submitting strike notices at both the Maritime and Coastal Services Agency (MDK) and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges (PoAB). The ongoing trade war has led to increased blank sailings, particularly on routes from Asia to North America, as shipping carriers grapple with uncertainty. Despite the turmoil, U.S. container imports surged in March, likely due to stockpiling ahead of tariff hikes. This action is expected to cause partial closures and disruptions across all Belgian ports, contributing to congestion across European ports. Shippers should anticipate potential delays and plan accordingly.
In April 2025, container volumes between the U.S. and China dropped by 30% to 40% following the implementation of new U.S. tariffs, including a 145% rate on Chinese imports. This month, the first Chinese freight ships since the U.S. imposed steep new tariffs arrived at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, carrying over 12,000 containers.
The newly struck U.S.-UK trade deal introduces firm U.S. security requirements for the UK’s steel and pharmaceutical sectors, signaling a move to curb Chinese influence in strategic supply chains. In return for tariff relief, the UK must align with U.S. demands concerning supply chain transparency and production facility ownership.
Transatlantic air freight capacity from Europe to the U.S. increased by 27% in April 2025, driven by the introduction of summer flight schedules and a rush to ship goods ahead of impending U.S. tariffs. Major European hubs like Schiphol and Liège expanded freighter capacity to manage the surge, while U.S. carriers faced labor shortages affecting cargo handling at key airports.
The New York Federal Reserve reported a continued easing of global supply chain pressures in April 2025, which suggests below-normal supply chain stress despite ongoing economic challenges. Easing supply chain pressures may help stabilize transit times and improve consistency, though localized disruptions and market shifts can still affect outcomes.
Carrier alliances are reshuffling schedules in response to market changes, leading to tighter vessel space at U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast ports. The Ocean and Premier alliances have announced blank sailings and temporary suspension of certain port calls, creating cargo backlogs and affecting transatlantic trade flows.
What You Can Do
- Review Sourcing Locations: Identify and adjust supply chain risks tied to impacted countries.
- Track Tariff Changes: Stay updated and ensure customs compliance with accurate documentation.
- Revisit Inventory Strategy: Consider stockpiling impacted goods while temporary reductions are in place.
- Plan for the Long Term: Prepare for tariff reinstatements by exploring nearshoring or reshoring options.
- Update Your Stakeholders: Communicate proactively with partners and customers on pricing and availability impacts.
We’re here to help you turn uncertainty into action. If you have questions or need support reviewing your product classifications, entry documents, or sourcing plans, please reach out.
Need help navigating these changes? Contact your representative today to get personalized support to stay ahead.
