The Office of the United States Trade Representative has announced findings and proposed action in 60 Section 301 investigations related to forced labor goods. For U.S. importers, this is not just another trade-policy headline. It is a signal that sourcing transparency, customs readiness, and landed-cost planning may become even more important in the months ahead. On June 2, 2026, USTR determined that the acts, policies, … Read More
New Customs Enforcement Order: What Importers Should Review Now
Customs enforcement is changing. Importers should prepare before the rules become operational. On June 3, 2026, the White House issued an Executive Order titled Strengthening Customs Enforcement. The order directs the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection to pursue a broad customs enforcement reform effort focused on Importers of Record, bond coverage, supply chain disclosures, foreign IORs, audits, penalties, and import … Read More
Transpacific Rates Are Surging: What Importers Need to Review Before Q3
Transpacific ocean freight rates are moving quickly again, and importers that are still planning against Q1 assumptions may need to revisit their Q3 strategy now. The issue is not only the base ocean rate. The current market is being shaped by early peak-season demand, carrier capacity management, blank sailings, fuel-related pressure, and new peak season surcharges. For importers moving goods from Asia into the United … Read More
Ocean Freight Rates Are Climbing Again: What Shippers Need to Know for June and July 2026
Ocean freight rates have been climbing steadily for the past several weeks, and the pace is accelerating heading into June and July 2026. For importers shipping from China and from South America, the numbers moving through the market right now are not projections. They are active carrier filings, confirmed General Rate Increases, and spot rate data already reflecting a sharp upward move. If your team … Read More
Customs Clearance Starts Before Arrival
Customs clearance before arrival is one of the most important steps importers can take to reduce delays, avoid compliance gaps, and improve shipment visibility. For many companies, customs clearance feels like something that happens only when cargo reaches the port, airport, or border. In reality, the strongest customs process starts before the shipment moves. A missing invoice, incorrect classification, late Importer Security Filing, inactive customs … Read More