by A1 WorldWide Logistics | Jan 21, 2025 | Customs Broker, Customs Broker Miami, Customs Clearance
Diversas situaciones en la industria del transporte marítimo internacional están provocando un aumento en las importaciones minoristas en EE. UU. El Global Port Tracker predice que el volumen de importaciones para diciembre de 2024 aumentará un 14.3% en comparación con el año anterior. Este número es un 19% superior al volumen previsto por la NRA (National Retail Association). La NRA también predice que el total de TEUs (equivalentes a veinte pies) en 2024 alcanzará los 25.6 millones, lo que representa más del 15% de los TEUs de 2023. Escenarios como una posible protesta portuaria (que los transportistas intentan evitar) y los aranceles a los fletes están provocando este aumento. Este artículo explicará por qué las importaciones están aumentando y cómo prepararse al importar a EE. UU.
¿Por qué están aumentando las importaciones minoristas en EE. UU.?
Las importaciones a EE. UU. ya estaban aumentando antes de 2025 debido a situaciones como una huelga portuaria. Una extensión de contrato entre la ILA (International Longshoremen’s Association) y la USMX (United States Maritime Alliance) expiró en 2025. Las negociaciones no resueltas sobre aumentos salariales y la automatización entre las partes han incrementado las posibilidades de una huelga en los puertos de la costa Este y Oeste el 15 de enero. Debido al temor de cierres portuarios, los transportistas comenzaron a importar un volumen significativo de mercancías a finales de 2024, incluyendo productos minoristas. Aunque las partes llegaron a un nuevo contrato que evitó el posible cierre, la NRA predice que las importaciones seguirán aumentando. Otra razón por la que aumentan las importaciones son los incrementos arancelarios que el presidente Trump implementará el primer día de su mandato.
En particular, Trump impondrá un aumento arancelario del 25% a todas las importaciones de México y Canadá. El aumento también incluirá un impuesto del 10% a todos los productos chinos que entren a EE. UU. Los minoristas importan un alto volumen de mercancías antes de la fecha de inauguración para evitar posibles aumentos de costos. El cliente será quien pague estos costos. La NRF predice que los aranceles podrían costar a los consumidores estadounidenses entre 46 y 78 mil millones de dólares en poder adquisitivo anual. Para prevenir el impacto de estos aumentos arancelarios, los minoristas están buscando soluciones, como importar desde otras partes del mundo. Varias compañías minoristas ya han anunciado planes para reducir las importaciones desde China.
¿Seguirá aumentando la tendencia?
A pesar de que Trump impondrá aranceles, la NRA cree que el impulso continuará durante el primer trimestre de 2024. La NRA predice que en febrero no habrá un gran aumento debido al Año Nuevo Chino. Un acuerdo alcanzado entre la ILA y la USMX también podría disminuir el volumen de importaciones al reducir la urgencia. Los transportistas deben estar preparados para enfrentar escenarios como el aumento de volúmenes de importación. Cuando el crecimiento de la carga llega a los puertos de EE. UU., esto a veces puede generar congestión portuaria y retrasos. Para prepararse ante posibles interrupciones, los transportistas deben estar al tanto de cualquier noticia que afecte su envío. Pueden hacerlo leyendo constantemente informes de noticias y hablando con profesionales.
Al importar a EE. UU., el transportista también debe entender las regulaciones que debe seguir. El desconocimiento del procedimiento puede ocasionar retrasos y pérdida de mercancías. Debido a las numerosas normativas, puede ser beneficioso utilizar la asistencia de un agente de aduanas al realizar importaciones. Los agentes de aduanas son personas o empresas que actúan como intermediarios entre los importadores y las aduanas de EE. UU. Aseguran el despacho aduanero ofreciendo diversos servicios como documentación, cálculo de impuestos y cumplimiento aduanero. Los agentes también educan a los transportistas sobre el proceso de importación, ayudándoles a ahorrar tiempo. Póngase en contacto con A1 Worldwide Logistics al 305-440-5156 o a través de info@a1wwl.com para hablar con un agente sobre el despacho de sus mercancías.
by A1 WorldWide Logistics | Jan 16, 2025 | Economic trends, Importing, Shipping Logistics
Various situations in the international shipping industry are resulting in U.S. retail imports surging. The Global Port Tracker is predicting that the import volume for December 2024 will be up 14.3% y/y. This number is 19% over the NRA’s (National Retail Association) predicted volume. The NRA also predicted that the total TEUs (twenty-foot equivalents) in 2024 will total 25.6 million. This is more than 15% of the TEUs in 2023. Scenarios from a potential port protest (that shippers avoid) and freight tariffs are causing the surge. This article will explain why importations are surging and how to prepare when importing into the U.S.
Why Are U.S. Retail Imports Surging?
Imports into the U.S. were rising before 2025 due to situations like a port strike. A contract extension between the ILA (International Longshoremen’s Association) and the USMX (United States Maritime Alliance) expired in 2025. Unresolved talks regarding wage increases and automation between the parties have increased the chances of an East and West Coast port strike on January 15th. Due to the fear of port shutdowns, shippers began importing a significant volume in late 2024, including retail freight. Although the parties reached a new contract avoiding a potential shutdown, the NRA predicts that imports will continue to rise. Another reason imports are growing is the tariff increases President Trump will introduce on the first day of office.
In particular, Trump will impose a tariff increase of 25% on all imports from Mexico and Canada. The hike will also include a 10% tax on all Chinese goods entering the U.S. Retailers import a high volume of cargo before the inauguration date to avoid potential cost increases. The customer will pay these costs. The NRF predicts that the tariffs could cost American customers $46 to $78 billion in annual spending power. To prevent the impact of tariff increases, retailers are looking for solutions like importing from different parts of the world. Various retail companies have already announced plans to reduce imports from China.
Will The Trend Continue To Rise?
Even with Trump imposing tariffs, the NRA believes the momentum will continue through the first quarter of 2024. The NRA predicts that February won’t increase much due to the Chinese New Year. An agreement reached between the ILA and USMX could also decrease the import volume by lessening urgency. Shippers must be ready to navigate scenarios like surging import volumes. When cargo growth comes into U.S. ports, this can sometimes lead to port congestion and delays. To prepare for potential disruptions, a shipper must be current with any news affecting their shipment. They can do this by constantly reading news reports and speaking to professionals.
When importing into the U.S., a shipper must also understand the regulations they must follow. Failure to know the procedure can lead to delays and loss of cargo. Due to the numerous guidelines, it may be beneficial to use the assistance of a customs broker when importing. Customs brokers are individuals or firms that act as intermediaries between importers and U.S. customs. They ensure customs clearance by offering various services like documentation, calculating taxes, and customs compliance. Brokers also educate shippers on the importation process while helping them save time. Contact A1 Worldwide Logistics at 305-440-5156 or info@a1wwl.com to speak to a broker regarding clearing your goods from customs.
by A1 WorldWide Logistics | Jan 9, 2025 | East Coast Protests, Economic trends, Shipping Logistics
The ILA and USMX reach an agreement nearly a week before the original contract extension expires. In a January 8th, 2025, announcement, the two parties agreed to replace the expiring contract with a tentative 6-year contract. A joint statement stated, “This agreement protects current ILA jobs and establishes a framework for implementing technologies that will create more jobs while modernizing East and Gulf Coast ports.” The new deal encompasses an estimated 25,000 workers across 14 port authorities from Boston, Massachusetts, to Texas. However, the contract does not include ILA workers in RORO (roll-on/roll-off) jobs across the locations. This agreement averted a potential second port strike by the ILA that would have severely disrupted international shipping.
Why Was There A Potential Strike?
On October 1st, 2024, the ILA had a strike in East and Gulf Coast ports across the U.S. For over a year, the ILA has been protesting for better employee wages and to stop automation at ports. During the pandemic, the USMX made approximately $400 billion in revenue, which the ILA felt was not paid back. Especially with growing inflation and as the cost of living increases. Another issue has been the introduction of automated equipment at ports, which threatens job security. The ILA believes that the USMX is replacing workers to increase corporate profit. USMX has the opposite belief that automation will create an opportunity for new jobs to maintain the equipment.
After a three-day strike in October, the ILA and USMX agreed to extend the contract. Along with a 61.5% pay increase, the extension included a $4 an-hour wage growth yearly over six years. The original contract ending the October 2024 protests expired on January 15th, 2025. Talks that started on January 7th resulted in a finalized master contract between the parties lasting six years. The new contract benefits ILA and USMX by increasing wages and job security while allowing automation. While the two sides will continue to operate under the current contract, they will meet with the Wage Scale Committee to ratify the final terms of the agreement.
What Will Be The Impact As The ILA and USMX Reach An Agreement?
The most significant impact of the new deal is the potential disruptions that the two parties have avoided. Analysts reported that the October 1st strike resulted in an economic deficit of nearly $5 billion daily. A second strike could further hurt the economy, with port stoppage and congestion causing container buildup. With a financial loss for importers and exporters, customers, ports, and truckers felt the strain. The backlogs of containers would have severely hurt businesses by creating massive delays in supply chains.
Trade groups and businesses positively welcomed the news since it provided certainty and avoided further disruptions. Another effect of the new contract is that shippers may regain the confidence to ship internationally. While moving cargo may seem like an opportunity for your business, shippers must take steps to prevent disruptions. This can include speaking to a logistics provider for assistance to get started. Reach A1 Worldwide Logistics at info@a1wwl.com or 305-425-9752 for a quote for importing into or out of the U.S. We are with you from the start of the shipping process until the goods reach the final destination.
by A1 WorldWide Logistics | Jan 8, 2025 | East Coast Protests, Economic trends, Shipping Logistics
Port labor talks are resuming between employers and dockworkers, with the current contract extension expiring on January 15th. Negotiations between the ILA (International Longshoremen’s Association) and the USMX (United States Maritime Alliance) have stopped since October 2024. The pause was after a strike on October 1st that lasted after three days. A tentative agreement ended the protest by extending the existing contract to January 15th, 2025. The agreement promised an hourly pay increase of 10% in the first year and 62% over the six-year deal. Over the last year, ILA workers have been protesting for higher and against using automation at ports. Specifically, they are fighting for wage hikes like West Coast ILWU dockworkers received in 2022.
During and after the pandemic, international shipping rates surged to incredible amounts. Specific container rates rose from $2,500 to $12,000. From 2020 to 2023, the USMX reportedly made nearly $400 billion. ILA President Harold Daggett noted, “Since COVID, they’re making billions of dollars, but they don’t want to share it.” International shipping companies have already announced container surcharges in the scenario that a strike does occur. They advise customers to retrieve their containers and return empty ones before January 15th. If the parties fail to reach an agreement by the date, associations like the NRF (National Retail Federation) are pushing for another extension.
The Reason Why Port Labor Talks Are Resuming
The reason why negotiations are resuming is to avert a situation similar to October’s port strike. While the October strike only lasted three days, a potentially longer one can have numerous consequences. Analysts approximate that a prolonged strike can result in an economic loss of $0.5 to $5 billion daily. Numerous supply chains rely on the ports, and disruptions can lead to delays and monetary loss. Shippers have already rerouted their shipments to ports away from ports affected by possible protests. The results of the talks are noteworthy, with East and Gulf Coast ports handling significant volumes of U.S. imports.
Automation Is A Primary Concern In The Talks
Although the October 2024 talks ended the strike last year, they did not address the issue of port automation. Automation is a huge concern due to the belief that it threatens the job security of ILA dockworkers. Dennis Daggett, the union’s vice president, stated, “It’s about replacing workers under the guise of progress while maximizing corporate profits.” The ILA also doubts the effectiveness of implementing automated systems and that the cost will outweigh the productive gains. Conversely, the USMX argued that semi-automated cranes are essential for improving efficiency and making U.S. ports competitive globally. Ports in countries like China have increased the volume of cargo movement due to these technologies.
The USMX also believes that automation will create new jobs for handling and maintaining the strategies. President-elect Donald Trump has backed the ILA’s stance against automation, noting that it will hurt American workers. Despite the concern that a potential port strike may cause, it should not stop you from moving your shipment. You should, however, take preventive steps beforehand and be up-to-date with the current situation. Reach A1 Worldwide Logistics at info@a1wwl.com or 305-425-9513 for a quote to move your goods internationally. We find the best action to ensure cargo moves to the final destination.
by A1 WorldWide Logistics | Dec 26, 2024 | East Coast Protests, Economic trends, Shipping Logistics
As the end of the contract extension approaches, seaports in the U.S. can see the ILA strike happening In January. Months of unsuccessful negotiations between the ILA (International Longshoremen’s Association) and the (U.S. Maritime Alliance) resulted in an October strike. The two parties disagreed on wages and the use of automation at ports. Port workers across the East and Gulf Coast began protesting until October 3rd, when they reached a tentative agreement. The agreement was a 61.5% pay raise and a $4 an-hour yearly wage increase for the next six years. USMX also extended the current contract to mid-January. With the January 15th, 2025, extension ending date nearing, it can have numerous implications for domestic and international shipping.
Why Could We See The ILA Strike Happening In January?
The chances of a port strike have increased with President-elect Donald Trump publicly backing the ILA. Trump recently met with the ILA President Harold Daggett and Vice President Dennis Daggett. After the meeting, Trump noted, “the financial benefits of automation are “nowhere near the distress, hurt, and harm the technology creates for workers”. Various components can contribute to a potential strike, including the minimal conversation between the parties. The ILA and USMX haven’t had any significant talks for over a month despite January 15th quickly approaching. Despite this, the ILA’s vice president voiced his displeasure regarding the growing use of automation earlier this month.
Despite the ILA’s disposition to automation, the USMX believes it is essential for moderation. The USMX views automation as necessary for building a more sustainable future for the U.S. maritime industry. They also argue that advanced technology will allow ports to handle more cargo while creating more jobs. Other players in the transportation industry believe that the strike may not happen and that the parties will reach an agreement. Along with Trump’s backing, an extension already includes more excellent pay and a yearly wage increase.
What Does The Strike Mean For The Shipping Industry?
Since the ILA handles approximately half of the U.S.’s ocean shipments, a potential strike can have significant effects. During the October 1st strike, 36 U.S. ports shut down, resulting in an economic loss of $5 billion daily. When a port stoppage happens, it can lead to congestion, which may disrupt numerous supply chains. To mitigate against delays, shippers could reroute their shipments to West Coast ports like the Port of Los Angeles. However, rerouting can have the opposite effect, extending the time it takes to ship the goods and causing congestion. They can also use different methods of conveyance like air or, if possible, land.
When shipping cargo internationally, you must take the appropriate steps to mitigate disruptions. Along with the ways the article lists, this can include being present with any news that may affect your shipment. Shippers have already begun importing cargo early to avoid a potential strike and other scenarios, like a tariff increase. Speaking to a logistics provider can also help find the right step to prevent delays. Contact A1 Worldwide Logistics at 305-440-5156 or info@a1wwl.com to navigate any situation impacting your supply chain. We have freight brokering, customs brokering, warehousing, domestic shipping, and more to guarantee the success of your shipment.
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