US Retailers Stockpile Imports Amid Strike Fears for Holidays

US Retailers Stockpile Imports Amid Strike Fears for Holidays

Unexpectedly high US import volumes are observed amidst the threat of East Coast and Gulf Coast port strikes, reflecting retailers' early stockpiling for the holiday season. Labor negotiations stalemate increases uncertainty, prompting retailers to diversify ports and prepare inventory in advance. Experts suggest that renewed congestion and tariff impacts also contribute to the surge in imports. Retailers are proactively managing uncertainty to ensure a successful holiday sales season. This proactive approach aims to mitigate potential disruptions and maintain a steady flow of goods to meet consumer demand.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Imports Stay Elevated As Port Delays Continue

US Imports Stay Elevated As Port Delays Continue

According to the Descartes Global Shipping Report, US imports in August decreased by 3% month-over-month but remained high, up 12.9% year-over-year, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. This high import volume exacerbates port congestion, with delays increasing at the seven major ports. Chinese imports remain a significant driver, growing by 17.2%. The report reveals a slight decrease in the West Coast ports' share and a general increase in port transportation delays. Addressing port congestion requires increased infrastructure investment, optimized operations, and improved inland transportation.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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New Customs Rules Affect Licensing Fees Royalties

New Customs Rules Affect Licensing Fees Royalties

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has released new Advisory Opinion 4.19 on customs valuation, addressing the complex valuation issues related to royalties and license fees under Article 8.1(c) of the Customs Valuation Agreement. This opinion clarifies the valuation principles for single royalties encompassing both patents and trademarks. It assists businesses in accurately calculating import costs, reducing valuation disputes, and promoting the healthy development of international trade. This guidance aims to provide clarity and consistency in the application of customs valuation rules related to intellectual property rights.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Chinas Trade Shift Disrupts Global Supply Chains

Chinas Trade Shift Disrupts Global Supply Chains

China's cancellation of substantial US agricultural orders, including pork and soybeans, has impacted the US agricultural sector. This action is part of China's import diversification strategy, aiming to reduce reliance on the United States. Simultaneously, the US economy faces recession risks, and the global trade landscape is being reshaped. The cancellation highlights the vulnerability of American farmers to trade disputes and underscores the ongoing tensions between the two economic powers. This situation could further exacerbate economic uncertainties and accelerate the shift in global supply chains.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Russia Eases China Border Trade with New Decree

Russia Eases China Border Trade with New Decree

Russian Presidential Decree No. 912 aims to alleviate congestion at western border crossings by allowing the import of certain goods without complete documentation. This temporary measure is intended to facilitate customs system reform and regulate China-Russia trade. In the long term, China-Russia cross-border e-commerce businesses need to adapt to the trend of digitalization and compliance, enhancing their compliance capabilities to gain an advantage in the future market. This emphasizes the importance of adhering to regulations for sustained success in the evolving trade landscape.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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UK Customs Guide Importing Banlangen for Personal Use

UK Customs Guide Importing Banlangen for Personal Use

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the policies and feasible methods for sending Isatis Root Granules to the UK. It emphasizes the risks of direct mailing and offers alternative solutions such as personal carriage and importing through designated importers. The article also reminds readers to pay attention to details such as packaging and declaration, and the importance of complying with customs regulations to ensure the safe and legal acquisition of Isatis Root Granules. Understanding these regulations is crucial for a smooth import process.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Retail Imports Hit Decade High Ahead of Holiday Season

US Retail Imports Hit Decade High Ahead of Holiday Season

US retail imports hit a decade high, signaling significant potential for the holiday shopping season. However, import growth isn't fully synchronized with demand. While supply chain data is encouraging, retailers need to optimize management, enhance customer experience, and embrace digital transformation to stand out in the competition and secure future success. Effective supply chain management and a focus on consumer experience will be crucial for navigating the upcoming holiday season and beyond. This requires a proactive and adaptable approach to meet evolving consumer demands.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Uschina Trade War Escalation Risks Higher Costs for American Consumers

Uschina Trade War Escalation Risks Higher Costs for American Consumers

The second round of the US-China trade war has begun, with the US imposing new tariffs on Chinese products. This article analyzes the impact of these tariffs on US prices, arguing that as China's share of the US import market grows, tariff increases will directly lead to higher prices for American consumers. It also explores the potential impact of the $200 billion goods list, the dilemmas faced by American companies, and provides an outlook on the future direction of the US-China trade war.

01/29/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Automation and Data Boost Resilience in Cold Chain Logistics

Automation and Data Boost Resilience in Cold Chain Logistics

Facing supply chain challenges, cold chain logistics companies are actively embracing automation and data-driven solutions. Major US ports successfully navigated the shifting import landscape of 2025 by upgrading infrastructure, leveraging data analytics, and optimizing inland transportation networks. Looking ahead, cold chain logistics will increasingly focus on intelligence and collaboration, building an efficient, reliable, and sustainable ecosystem. This involves utilizing real-time data for predictive analytics, automating warehouse processes, and fostering seamless communication across the supply chain to ensure product integrity and minimize waste.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Coast Port Strike Threatens Retail Imports West Coast Shift

East Coast Port Strike Threatens Retail Imports West Coast Shift

The National Retail Federation reports a potential surge in August import volume due to retailers front-loading shipments and shifting to the West Coast amid East and Gulf Coast port strike risks. Labor negotiation stalemates and the Red Sea crisis exacerbate existing supply chain challenges, highlighting the importance of supply chain resilience. Retailers need to closely monitor developments and develop contingency plans to ensure business continuity. This proactive approach is crucial to mitigate potential disruptions caused by the combined pressures on global trade routes and labor relations.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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