This is my 46th year in the industry and my 23rd with Coppersmith Global Logistics. During the time I’ve been doing this, I’ve seen the change to the 10-digit harmonized tariff from its TSUSA predecessor, China joining the WTO and the removal of quota / visa on textiles from there as well and the continuing increasing size of ocean vessels to the 23,000+ TEU behemoths they are today.
When I tell you that even I’ve been, not impressed, but amazed, at the velocity of what’s been happening over the past several weeks as far as trade announcements go, this latest move is just the next one in what I think will be a continuing string of announcements – and I honestly don’t know where and how those announcements end.
We’re accustomed to change, sure, just not at this velocity. Nobody’s seen anything like it before. The recent changes to steel and aluminum tariffs are a perfect example. With President Trump raising aluminum tariffs from 10% to 25% across all imports, without exceptions or country-specific carve-outs, businesses must stay informed. This momentous shift—eliminating exemptions for key trading partners like Canada, Mexico, the EU, and Australia—demands strategic adjustments for importers and supply chain professionals.
At Coppersmith Global Logistics, we understand that change brings challenges—but also opportunities. Let’s break down what these new tariffs mean and how businesses can prepare.
What’s Changing?
The increase in aluminum tariffs to 25% marks a major shift in U.S. trade policy. Previously, certain countries had negotiated exemptions or quota-based allowances, but those are now eliminated. Additionally, new “melted and poured” and “smelted and cast” requirements for North American aluminum imports aim to curb circumvention of tariffs by China and Russia.
The U.S. government has justified these actions under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, citing national security concerns and a need to protect domestic aluminum production. However, the impact of the global supply chain will be substantial.
How This Affects Importers and Supply Chains
The removal of exclusions means that importers who previously relied on duty-free aluminum imports must now factor in higher costs and increased compliance burdens. Additionally, manufacturers using aluminum-based products in the automotive, aerospace, and construction sectors may experience cost volatility as suppliers adjust pricing.
Beyond cost, logistics professionals must prepare for potential delays, customs processing challenges, and a shift in sourcing strategies. With foreign producers moving operations to Mexico and Canada in recent years, some importers may find their suppliers affected by the new restrictions, requiring adjustments in their supply chains.
What Can Businesses Do?
- Reassess Supplier Relationships: If you source aluminum from countries affected by the new tariffs, it’s time to review contracts and consider alternative sourcing options.
- Plan for Tariff Costs: Work with financial and logistics partners to incorporate these new tariff rates into budgeting and pricing models.
- Monitor Compliance Requirements: New requirements on North American aluminum processing mean more rigorous customs checks, so businesses need to ensure that their documentation is airtight.
- Work with a Trusted Logistics Partner: With shifting regulations, having an experienced freight forwarder is crucial to navigating customs, managing duties, and ensuring efficient cargo movement.
Coppersmith Global Logistics Keeps Cargo Moving
At Coppersmith Global Logistics, we help businesses anticipate, adapt, and stay ahead of regulatory changes. Our expertise in customs clearance, tariff compliance, and supply chain strategy ensures that your cargo moves efficiently—no matter how the rules change.
If you have questions about how these new aluminum tariffs impact your supply chain, reach out to Coppersmith today. We’ll help you plan ahead, avoid disruptions, and ensure your cargo keeps moving.
