US Retailers Face Ongoing Supply Chain Challenges

US Retailers Face Ongoing Supply Chain Challenges

The National Retail Federation reports that the pandemic has significantly impacted US imports, posing challenges to the supply chain. Import data has declined, increasing uncertainty. Retailers need to strengthen collaboration with suppliers, optimize inventory management, and enhance supply chain transparency to cope with the pandemic's impact and seize opportunities for digital transformation. The pandemic has created a volatile market, requiring retailers to adapt quickly and strategically to maintain profitability and customer satisfaction. Addressing these challenges is crucial for long-term success.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Import Growth Persists Despite Tariff Worries in 2024

US Import Growth Persists Despite Tariff Worries in 2024

S&P Global Market Intelligence data reveals a surprising surge in US imports at the end of 2024, resulting in an 11.6% increase for the year. This was largely driven by companies stockpiling goods to avoid potential tariff risks. However, 2025 is expected to see a decline in import volumes due to the looming threat of dockworker strikes and the impact of tariff policies. Businesses need to closely monitor policy changes and adapt accordingly to navigate these challenges within the supply chain.

DHL Launches Simplified US Customs Clearance Service

DHL Launches Simplified US Customs Clearance Service

DHL Global Forwarding introduces a customs clearance consolidation service designed to streamline US imports, reduce costs, improve efficiency, and mitigate risks. This service consolidates multiple shipments for clearance under a single declaration, leveraging advanced technology for data integration and real-time tracking. It is suitable for e-commerce platforms, retail businesses, and manufacturing enterprises, helping companies enhance their competitiveness in complex trade environments. By simplifying the import process and offering greater visibility, DHL aims to empower businesses to navigate the challenges of international trade with ease.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Ports Face Strike Threat Amid Rising Import Demand

US Ports Face Strike Threat Amid Rising Import Demand

US East Coast and Gulf ports face a strike threat, leading to a surge in import volume as retailers stockpile inventory to mitigate potential supply chain disruptions. Despite slowing consumer demand and job growth, container imports have significantly increased. Experts advise retailers to diversify port options, enhance communication with suppliers, optimize logistics processes, and monitor policy changes to address supply chain risks and ensure a smooth holiday season. This proactive approach aims to minimize the impact of potential port disruptions on the flow of goods.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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DHL Launches Integrated US Import Customs Service

DHL Launches Integrated US Import Customs Service

DHL Global Forwarding introduces an integrated customs clearance service for US imports, designed to help retailers navigate evolving trade landscapes and tariff complexities. By streamlining customs processes and reducing costs, the service consolidates multiple shipments into a single entry for clearance, offering businesses a more efficient and economical solution. This helps retailers reduce costs and improve efficiency, enabling them to succeed during peak seasons. The new service aims to simplify the import process and provide a competitive edge in the dynamic e-commerce market.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Ports See Surge in Intermodal Freight Demand

West Coast Ports See Surge in Intermodal Freight Demand

The US multimodal market started Q4 strong, driven by West Coast imports and consumer spending. International Standard Containers (ISO) showed significant growth year-over-year. Although trailer volumes declined, the overall market maintained its upward trajectory. Experts anticipate continued strength in international freight volumes and are monitoring labor agreements and trucking capacity for their potential impact on future market development. The performance of ISO containers highlights the shift in import patterns and underscores the importance of West Coast ports in handling increased consumer demand.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US East Coast Ports Overtake West Coast in Supply Chain Shift

US East Coast Ports Overtake West Coast in Supply Chain Shift

This article analyzes the shifting competitive landscape between US East and West Coast ports in handling Asian imports. It argues that the increased market share of East Coast ports is a result of several factors, including infrastructure improvements, enhanced efficiency, and congestion issues experienced during the pandemic. The analysis further explores the potential impact of this shift on the overall supply chain, considering factors like cost, transit times, and resilience. The study highlights the evolving dynamics of freight movement and the strategic importance of port infrastructure and operational efficiency.

US Considers Xinjiang Product Ban Threatening Supply Chains

US Considers Xinjiang Product Ban Threatening Supply Chains

The US Senate passed a bill aiming to comprehensively ban imports from Xinjiang, China, based on a "presumption of guilt" principle. This impacts not only cotton and tomatoes but the entire supply chain. The bill is expected to pass the House and be signed by Biden. Businesses must immediately assess risks, reshape supply chains, and address the challenges posed by rising trade protectionism. The ban will force companies to provide clear and convincing evidence that their products are not made with forced labor, placing a significant burden on due diligence and compliance.

Trump Tariff Threat Could Raise US Import Costs in 2025

Trump Tariff Threat Could Raise US Import Costs in 2025

S&P Global Market Intelligence reports a surge of 8% in US imports in January 2025, with diverging performance between consumer and capital goods. This spike was driven by a confluence of factors including potential Trump administration tariff policies, port labor concerns, and the Lunar New Year. While January saw a significant increase, import growth is expected to slow in subsequent months, potentially leading to a 4.4% decrease for the full year. Businesses should closely monitor policy changes and adjust their strategies accordingly to navigate the evolving trade landscape.

HS Codes and Tax Rates Revised for Roughcut Granite Imports

HS Codes and Tax Rates Revised for Roughcut Granite Imports

In recent years, raw or lightly processed granite has gained popularity in the construction industry. This article provides a detailed analysis of the HS code 2516110000, including relevant tax rates and declaration elements. It offers important information such as tax rates and regulatory conditions to help businesses optimize their import and export strategies.