by A1 WorldWide Logistics | Jun 19, 2025 | Importing, Shipping Logistics, Supply Chain
Due to the limited shelf life, a shipper should be aware of common mistakes when importing perishables. Perishable cargo refers to any item that can spoil, deteriorate, or lose quality if not shipped under proper conditions. Some examples include fresh produce, such as fruits and vegetables, meat, dairy products, bakery items, and frozen items. Along with foods, it can also include pharmaceuticals, chemicals, cosmetics, and flowers. Due to the cargo type, they must be stored, handled, and transported with temperature and time sensitivity in mind. Along with importing, this can also include domestic shipping. This article will explain the top mistakes shippers face when importing perishables and how to prevent them from occurring.
What Are Common Mistakes Made By Shippers That Import Perishables?
As previously mentioned, the shipper must handle perishables properly throughout the entire shipping process. One of the biggest mistakes importers make is not having proper cold chain management. From the start of the journey to the final delivery, it is crucial that the cargo remains at a continuous, suitable temperature. Even brief periods away from the optimal temperature can result in spoilage or contamination. Spoilage can be particularly detrimental if the importer is a business with a large customer base. Not only can it lead to monetary loss, but it also looks bad on the importer. Another common mistake shippers face when importing perishables is failing to understand its time-sensitive nature.
Perishables are goods that have a limited and specified shelf life, depending on the item. After the date passes, they become unsuitable for consumption or use. Importers tend to underestimate transit time by choosing cheaper routes, which can extend the importation time. The extension can come from port congestion, leading to delays. In turn, the delays can reduce the shelf life and make the product unusable. Another common mistake shippers can face when importing perishables is having incorrect documentation. Due to the nature of this cargo type, specific documents may be required, such as import permits, health certificates, and FDA prior notices. Failure to provide them can result in fines, customs delays, and even the confiscation of the shipment.
How To Prevent These Mistakes When Importing Perishables?
With the various ways that mistakes can negatively impact perishable imports, there are methods to prevent them from occurring. To ensure proper temperature control throughout the journey, the shipper should use trusted carriers that specialize in this cargo type. Using reefer containers with temperature monitoring devices is also essential in preventing spoilage. Shippers must also be aware of the shelf life of their cargo and plan their supply chains accordingly. The importation routes should be speedy, reliable, and factor in wait time for customs clearance. Along with understanding the regulations and paperwork for importing specific perishable the shipper munt ensure that the packaging is correct.
When importing perishables into the US, shippers must understand what can go wrong to mitigate potential problems. Failing to prepare correctly can lead to significant disruptions in the supply chain. Another way to avoid making mistakes when importing perishables is to consult a customs broker. Brokers act as intermediaries between the importer and the customs of the country to which they are importing. In the US, it’s CBP (Customs and Border Protection), and brokers help with clearing goods from customs. They achieve this by offering solutions such as filing entries, calculating duties, and providing paperwork, among others. Contact A1 Worldwide Logistics at 305-425-9752 or info@a1wwl.com to speak with a broker about the success of your shipment.
by A1 WorldWide Logistics | Jun 12, 2025 | Economic trends, Shipping Logistics, Tariffs
On May 26, the Trump Administration revealed that Trump is delaying EU tariffs until July 9. Initially, the implementation of a 50% tariff on EU (European Union) imports was set to start at the beginning of June. A phone call between Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen resulted in the new deadline. Previously, Trump planned to impose 20% levies on EU imports, but then he paused it for 90 days in April. The president then halved it to 10% while also threatening a 200% tariff on wine and other EU alcohol imports. These were scraped with Trump then announcing a 50% tariff on EU goods. With the tariffs still in place for July, this could have a significant impact on international shipping.
Why Is Trump Delaying EU Tariffs?
Trump is delaying tariffs on the EU after Ursula von der Leyen requested extra time for negotiations following a phone call. The time is to create a trade agreement that will prevent a significant escalation in transatlantic trade tensions. Trump initially proposed a 50% tariff on the EU due to longstanding grievances like unfair trade practices. In particular, he highlighted a trade deficit of $235.57 billion between the US and the EU in 2024. Trump recently stated, “They charge the U.S. tax, and we will charge them the exact tax and tariff.” The EU has been planning its countermeasure to the US’s duties, including targeting US imports worth approximately $107 billion.
Along with addressing unfair trade practices, Trump’s proposed 50% tariff is to combat the EU’s non-trade barriers. An example is the EU’s VAT (Value-Added Tax), which Trump believes is a disadvantage to US exporters. VAT is a consumption tax on goods and services in the EU. Trump notes that it is more punitive than a tariff and a non-tariff barrier. Other non-trade barriers include the EU’s stringent food safety regulations and subsidies for EU agricultural products. Another goal behind Trump’s imposing tariffs on the EU and other countries is to bring manufacturing back to the US. In turn, this will stimulate the economy by creating jobs and also stop the inflow of drugs to the US.
What Can The Tariffs Mean For Shipping?
The EU and the US are some of the largest trade partners globally in terms of volume. Due to the amount of imports and exports, a 50% tariff would have had a significant impact on international shipping. The postponement of the tariffs could lead to increased imports from the EU. If no agreement is in place by June 9, this may lead to higher importation costs. The costs would impact other parts of supply chains, including domestic shipping for picking up cargo from ports. Shippers may begin looking for countries outside the EU to bring in goods or bring production back to the US.
Importing cargo into the US during a time of tariff increases can be demanding for shippers. Although tariffs should not stop you from importing, the shipper should take the proper steps to protect their cargo. Failure to prepare correctly can result in monetary loss, delays, and loss of cargo. A great way to start is by contacting a customs brokerage, such as A1 Worldwide Logistics. Customs brokers coordinate the clearance of cargo entering the US. They do this by offering various solutions, such as providing documentation, calculating duties, filing entries, and more. Speak to our brokers at info@a1wwl.com or 305-425-9752 for assistance with the importation process.
by A1 WorldWide Logistics | Jun 4, 2025 | Economic trends, Importing, Tariffs
The trade war is continuing, with Trump doubling steel tariffs for imports starting today. An announcement by the Trump Administration on June 30 revealed that steel and aluminum taxes would rise to 50%. Initially, the president imposed a 25% tax on these imports in March, but it was recently doubled. During his first term, Trump levied a similar 25% tariff on steel articles and a 10% tariff on aluminum products. The Biden administration blocked enforcement, citing national security concerns and an adverse effect on domestic steel production. Trump quickly reversed the blockage when returning to office. Due to its usage in various industries, this could have a significant impact on international shipping.
Why Is Trump Doubling Steel Tariffs?
Trump’s goal behind doubling steel and aluminum tariffs is to strengthen domestic industries and address trade imbalances. The original 25% tax increase was to bring the production of raw materials back to the US. Trump recently stated, “We don’t want America’s future to be built with shoddy steel from Shanghai. We want it built with the strength and the pride of Pittsburgh.” The belief is that bringing manufacturing back to the US. would stimulate the economy by creating jobs. Steel and aluminum tariff hikes are also a measure by Trump to combat the importation of low-priced foreign metals. He believes that foreign metal imports make US industries less competitive and pose a threat to national security.
Along with strengthening US steel and aluminum industries, Trump’s proposed 50% tariff is to address unfair trade practices. An example is dumping, which is when a country exports products at a price lower than their domestic market value. This can lead to a trade deficit for the importation of goods such as metals. Trump plans to “level the field” by reducing the trade deficit with the US’s largest trading partners. A similar tariff on all imports from the European Union (EU) is set to take effect on June 9. The president is also promising a $2.2 billion investment by Nippon in the US Steel’s Pennsylvania plant.
What Can The Tariffs Mean For Shipping?
Due to the volume of steel and aluminum imports into the US, a 50% tariff would significantly impact international shipping. The costs of importing metal into the US could rise. Costs would affect other parts of supply chains, including domestic shipping for picking up cargo from ports. Although Trump’s goal is to bring manufacturing back to the US, steel and aluminum-reliant industries may face higher costs. Industries such as construction, automotive, and manufacturing could also feel the strain of having to reorient their supply chains domestically. Trading partners may also retaliate by imposing their tariffs on US imports.
Importing cargo into the US during a time of tariff increases can be demanding for shippers. Although tariffs should not stop you from importing, the shipper should take the proper steps to protect their cargo. It can be beneficial to consult with a 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) provider, such as A1 Worldwide Logistics, when starting. 3PLs are service providers that assist with various aspects of the supply chain. Some of the solutions they offer include freight forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing, and more. They also guide the shipper on the best course of action to protect their shipment. Speak to our brokers and forwarders at info@a1wwl.com or 305-425-9752 for assistance with the importation process.
by A1 WorldWide Logistics | May 29, 2025 | Economic trends, Importing, Tariffs
A ruling by the US Court of International Trade (CIT) has resulted in the Federal court blocking Trump’s tariffs. Termed “Liberation Day”, the president signed an executive order on April 2 introducing a 10% tax for most trading partners. On May 28, a three-judge panel from the CIT determined that Trump’s tariffs were unlawful. In particular, the court noted that the administration had exceeded its authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The court ruling was also against the higher tariffs Trump proposed for imports from Canada, China, and Mexico. With the tariffs potentially having a significant impact on trade, the blocking is a landmark decision for international shipping.
Why Is the US Federal Court Blocking Trump’s Tariffs?
The blocking of Trump’s tariffs comes after various businesses and states filed lawsuits against the levies. Some of the states included Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Oregon, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, New York, and Vermont. The argument was that Trump’s enforcement overstepped presidential powers, and CIT eventually sided with the plaintiffs, blocking the tariffs. The court released a statement stating, “The Worldwide and Retaliatory Tariff Orders exceed any authority granted to the President by IEEPA to regulate importation by using tariffs.” CIT further noted that the president’s reasons for imposing taxes do not represent “unusual and extraordinary threats.” The IEEPA is a US law that grants the President authority to regulate economic transactions when declaring a national emergency.
President Trump’s goal behind enforcing reciprocal tariffs is to address trade imbalances with the US’s trading partners. Trump has argued that trading partners, like China and the European Union, have imposed significantly higher tariffs on US imports. The levies are a tool to pressure countries into making better trade deals and reducing trading barriers. There is also a goal to bring manufacturing back to the US to create jobs and stimulate the economy. While it could boost domestic shipping and production, analysts believe it may harm the economy by creating inflation. There was also a fear that countries would impose their retaliatory tariffs.
What Was The Response To The Decision?
Immediately after the court blocked the tariffs, the Trump administration announced plans to appeal the ruling. The next step could be a potential escalation of the case to the Supreme Court. While there hasn’t been a direct response from Trump, administration officials strongly opposed the appeal. Stephen Miller, White House Deputy Chief of Staff, released a statement stating, “The judicial coup is out of control.” White House spokesperson Kush Desai said, “It is not for unelected judges to decide how to properly address a national emergency.” The ruling could soon disrupt US ports due to the uncertainty for importers that were navigating the active tariffs.
Despite the tariffs being on pause, A shipper should be aware of what to expect when transporting cargo. Lacking a proper understanding when starting can lead to delays, financial loss, and cargo loss. Shippers must stay informed about news that could impact their shipments. Another way to prepare when importing into the US is by contacting a Licensed Customs Broker. Customs brokers are individuals or firms that assist importers in meeting federal requirements for customs clearance. They accomplish this by offering services such as providing documentation, calculating tariffs, classifying cargo, ensuring compliance, and more. Contact A1 Worldwide Logistics at info@a1wwl.com to speak with a broker about the success of your shipment.
by A1 WorldWide Logistics | May 23, 2025 | 3PL, Economic trends, Importing
As tariffs continue to impact the international shipping industry, it is essential to know how to import during tariff hikes. Over the last few months, President Trump has imposed, announced, and paused numerous tariffs for imports into the U.S. Some goods affected include automobiles, aluminum, and oil, along with country-specific tariffs for Canada, Mexico, and China. Trump also imposed a 10% baseline tariff on April 2 for all countries importing goods to the U.S. Due to the volume of goods that come into the U.S., the tariffs have already impacted countless supply chains. This article will explain what to expect and give ideal steps to prepare when importing during tariff hikes.
Why Is It Important To Know How To Import During Tariff Hikes?
Knowing how to import during higher tariffs is crucial because of the consequences of not being prepared. The most significant impact of tariff hikes is that overall costs could skyrocket for different parts of a supply chain. In addition to importation, this can also include domestic shipping to move the goods to the final destination. As a result, a shipper’s profit margin can significantly decrease. If the shipper has customers, the higher costs will fall on them, which could strain relationships. Understanding how to import is also necessary to make an informed decision regarding your shipment.
How Should You Prepare?
Before deciding to import, a shipper must know the importation process for bringing goods to the U.S. Not knowing can lead to extra costs and tariff hikes. This can include understanding the rules and regulations for your imported cargo. A shipper must also understand the documents that they may require for importation. Some examples are the bill of lading, packing list, certificate of origin, arrival notice, commercial invoice, etc. The importer must correctly fill out the paperwork to avoid the cargo staying at customs and extra charges. With Trump implementing various tariffs, it is increasingly vital to classify goods correctly under the HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule).
The HTS is a system for classifying goods that use codes to determine the correct tariffs. Shippers have found other ways to prepare for tariff hikes, such as importing from different countries. An example is importing from Vietnam or Thailand instead of China, which has higher tariffs. Many supply chains are even reshoring production back to the U.S. to avoid the tariff hikes. There could be other issues with reshoring, including the costs associated with moving manufacturing. Shippers must also stay updated with news regarding the changing tariffs by checking news reports or online articles.
A1 Worldwide Logistics
When importing during tariff hikes, it is increasingly essential that you take the proper steps to protect your shipment. Failure to prepare can result in monetary loss and even loss of cargo. It can be especially adverse if the importer has customers expecting the goods. Another way to prepare is by contacting a 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) provider like A1 Worldwide Logistics. 3PLs provide various supply chain logistics services, including international and domestic shipping, customs clearance, warehousing, and more. They also educate shippers on the best course of action to take to avoid disruptions like tariffs. Reach A1 Worldwide Logistics at info@a1wwl.com or 305-425-9752 to learn about our solutions for ensuring your shipment’s success.
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