Trade policy has always made waves—but lately, it’s making tsunamis.
With tariffs shifting by the hour and global players adjusting strategy mid-voyage, U.S. importers and exporters are facing another high-stakes season. The White House’s sudden pause on “reciprocal” tariffs (with the exception of China) has touched off an early peak shipping season. Carriers are packed, space is tight, and everyone’s trying to ship “just in case” before the next announcement changes the math again.
For logistics professionals and the businesses they serve, this isn’t just a matter of price—it’s about timing, agility, and access.
We’re seeing pressure points across the board. Chinese goods now face a staggering 145% tariff. Meanwhile, importers in Taiwan, Malaysia, and beyond are scrambling to secure containers before July 9, when the tariff moratorium ends. Even electronics and pharmaceuticals—key categories initially exempt—are under fresh scrutiny, with tariff “buckets” coming soon.
These shifts aren’t just geopolitical—they’re deeply operational. Contracts are being revisited, revised, and reworked. Annual forecasts are off the table. Equipment is short. Surcharges are up. And blank sailings are turning into surprise detours for cargo caught midstream.
In moments like this, strategy matters more than certainty.
This isn’t the time for long-range pivots. It’s a time for tactical action: build buffer inventory where you can, stay flexible on routing, and lean into trusted partners who have eyes on the ground and experience across markets.
At Coppersmith, we’ve seen a lot in nearly a century of logistics, but this moment demands something we’ve always believed in: client-first clarity. That means explaining what’s changing, advising what’s next, and always advocating for your freight like it’s our own.
Your cargo is your business. Ours is protecting it. If you’re unsure what today’s tariffs mean for tomorrow’s orders, contact your Coppersmith representative. You don’t have to navigate this alone—we’re here to help.
