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Contract vs. Spot Rates: Which Will Win in 2025-26?

As we head into 2025-26, the question on some shipper's mind is: contract or spot rates? While spot rates might seem tempting with their short-term savings, history shows that contract rates are the true winners of the long-term race. Don't be fooled by the lure of a few dollars saved today, as it could lead to millions lost down the road. Why Contract Rates Reign…

Trump Actions on Tariffs, Trade and De Minimis Shipments

President Trump has issued hundreds of executive actions since his inauguration. Many were Executive Orders (EOs) rescinding Biden EOs or to initiate policies not needing congressional approval. On Feb. 1, Trump announced 25% tariffs on products from Mexico and Canada (with Canadian energy resources at 10%), and 10% tariffs on products from China. All were scheduled to start…

The 2025 Tides of Global Trade: Are You Ready?

Your Executive Director here, back with another update from the ever-exciting world of ocean freight. If there's one thing we've learned, it's to expect the unexpected! Just when we thought we had a handle on things, the ILWU and USMX threw us a curveball with their tentative agreement. Now, the challenge is getting it finalized. But that's not the only wave we're…

The 119th Congress and Budget Reconciliation

When the 119th Congress began on Jan. 3, 2025, the big question was whether House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) would have the votes to keep his post with the Republican majority at 219-215 per Rep. Matt Gaetz’s (R-FL) departure. Johnson could only lose one Republican vote to hold the necessary 218 for reelection but he prevailed with President-elect Trump corralling wayward…

What You Need to Know About the 2025-26 Shipping Season

As we sail into the new year, it's time to batten down the hatches and prepare for some potential choppy waters. Here's the latest on the looming port strikes and a rundown of what you need to know about the 2025-26 shipping season. Port Strikes: A Storm on the Horizon? Remember the port strike in October? Well, we might be facing another one soon. The current contract…

The Trump Tariff Strategy

The swearing-in of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States on Jan. 20, 2025, will alleviate the “tax uncertainty” that’s gripped businesses with the expiration of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) at next year’s end. Trump’s inauguration and Republican control of Congress means the TCJA will be extended and some provisions made permanent perhaps by the end…

The 2024 Election and the Housewares Industry

The election of Donald Trump to a second, non-consecutive term as President of the United States will result in dramatic policy changes from Washington, DC, immediately after his swearing-in on Jan. 20, 2025. He will start by issuing executive orders reversing those from his predecessor, President Joe Biden. One of the first actions by President Trump will likely be a…

Shipping Challenges in 2025

The year 2025 is shaping up to potentially be a wild ride in container shipping. From potential strikes to looming increased tariffs and Chinese New Year, there's a lot to keep an eye on. Let's break down the key challenges and see how they might impact your supply chains. East Coast Showdown: The ILA Contract Negotiations The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA)…

East Coast Strike: A Deeper Dive into the Standoff

The ongoing strike by dockworkers on the U.S. East Coast has brought maritime trade to a standstill, leaving many to wonder: why hasn't a resolution been reached? While it appears counterintuitive, several factors incentivize both the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to prolong the strike. Why the Strike Drags…