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Supply Chain Updates—April 7, 2026 Newsletter

April 6, 2026

Tariff & Trade Updates:
Major Revision to Section 232 Metal Tariff: The Administration has issued a significant proclamation revising the Section 232 metal tariffs, with changes taking effect April 6. The most impactful shift is that all covered steel, aluminum, and copper articles will now be assessed on the full invoice value of the product. This eliminates split-line valuation and the use of allocation spreadsheets or supplier certifications to separate metal and non-metal value.

The new framework introduces updated tariff tiers, expanded derivative coverage, and new exemptions.
Key highlights include:
  • New tariff rates ranging from 50%25%15%, and 10%, depending on product category and origin
  • Preferential rates for qualifying U.K.‑origin goods
  • A new 15% metal‑by‑weight threshold for certain derivative goods
  • A transitional duty structure for metal‑intensive industrial and electrical equipment through 2027
  • A broad list of goods removed from Section 232 scope, including select chemicals, consumer goods, and components
  • Russia‑origin metal remains subject to a 200% rate
  • New documentation requirements for copper articles, including smelting and casting origin
  • Commerce and USTR now have joint authority to add derivative articles on a rolling basis
These changes will materially affect landed cost calculations and may increase tariff exposure for many importers. At the same time, new exemptions and thresholds may create opportunities to reduce duty liability.

Have questions about how these tariff changes affect your shipments? Our team of experts is ready to provide guidance, please Contact Us anytime.

Companies are increasingly treating tariffs, geopolitical shifts, and regulatory changes as ongoing factors rather than one-time disruptions.

In response, many are strengthening supply chain resilience through diversification, enhanced visibility, and more flexible sourcing and inventory strategies to better navigate a complex global environment.

U.S. companies are seeing softer sales, particularly in global markets, while also managing higher sourcing costs driven by tariffs. 

In response, businesses are taking a measured approach by adjusting pricing where necessary and exploring supply chain strategies to maintain stability. 

Legal landscape around U.S. tariffs remains unsettled as importers pursue refunds and lawsuits after key duties were struck down, while the possibility of new tariffs under different authorities continues to evolve.

Importers are being advised to monitor these developments closely, track relevant entries, and consider protests or filings as they navigate ongoing tariff-related changes.

Ongoing geopolitical instability and disruptions across key shipping routes are driving longer transit times, higher costs, and increased complexity in global logistics.

Our team supports importers with enhanced visibility, strategic routing guidance, and timely updates to help maintain consistency and reduce potential disruptions.

Global trade volatility is making supply chain decision-making increasingly complex, with real-time data and AI-driven insights becoming essential tools.

Through our AI‑enabled solutions, including the integrated technology suite that offers real‑time visibility, customizable data integration, and intuitive customer portals, we help importers anticipate changes, manage risk, and make smarter, more confident operational decisions.

Tariff policy adjustments and legal developments continue to create uncertainty in global trade, even one year after major tariff actions were introduced.

The shifting regulatory environment has made long-term planning more complex for importers, reinforcing the need for flexible supply chain strategies and close monitoring of trade policy changes.

Additional Tariff Information: 
IEEPA Tariff Refunds & CAPE Processing

CIT Judge Eaton has confirmed that all entries, whether liquidated or unliquidated, are eligible for refunds of previously assessed IEEPA duties. CBP’s new CAPE (Customs Automated Processing Environment) system will manage the refund process.

CBP reports that CAPE is nearing completion, with the claim portal expected no earlier than mid-MayPhase I will focus on unliquidated entries and those within the 90-day voluntary reliquidation window. Certain entry types, including reconciliation, drawback, and manual (non-ACE) entries, will be processed in later phases.

Importers should expect:
  • A 45‑day validation period after submitting their entry list
  • Refunds issued according to the standard 314‑day liquidation cycle
  • CBP to review entries for compliance with Section 232, Section 301, and AD/CVD requirements
  • Refunds to be delayed if outstanding duty or penalty bills exist
  • The need to maintain an updated master list of IEEPA‑affected entries
  • ACE access, ACH refund setup, and familiarity with ES003 and new refund reports
Preparation now will help ensure smooth processing once CAPE opens.
How Imperative Logistics Can Support You:
  • Customs Brokerage and Compliance: We help clients navigate the new Section 232 rules, including full‑value assessment, origin documentation, derivative classifications, and the new weight‑threshold requirements. Our team ensures filings are accurate and aligned with CBP’s evolving enforcement posture.
  • IEEPA Refund & CAPE Claim Management: We support clients in preparing ACE declarations, validating entry lists, monitoring CAPE processing, and coordinating refund timing. Our structured approach reduces administrative burden and maximizes refund recovery.
  • Strategic Tariff Planning & Exemption Analysis: With new exemptions, preferential rates, and transitional duty structures, we identify opportunities to reduce tariff exposure and optimize sourcing strategies.
  • Global Trade Intelligence & Risk Monitoring: We track regulatory developments, derivative expansions, and enforcement trends to help clients maintain resilient, compliant, and cost‑efficient supply chains.

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