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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…

Proposed De Minimis Imports Rule and the SHOP Safe Act

On Sept. 13, the Biden administration announced new actions to “crack down on de minimis shipments with unsafe, unfairly traded products.” Under current law, imported items are eligible for a de minimis exemption that allows shipments of foreign goods valued at $800 or less to avoid tariffs and undergo little to no inspection. Over the last 10 years, shipments entering the…

Navigating the Waves: Spot Rates vs. Contract Rates in Ocean Shipping

The shipping industry is buzzing. Rates are climbing, carriers are thriving and shippers are feeling the pinch. Is it 2020 all over again? While the current market may feel familiar, understanding your options is key to navigating these turbulent waters. Let’s dive into the difference between spot rates and contract rates to help you make informed shipping decisions. Spot…

Canadian Railroad Impasse, Shipping Issues for Q3

On August 22, Canada’s two biggest railroads, Canadian National Railway (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC), locked out their workers after failed labor talks with the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference on a new collective bargaining agreement for some 9,000 conductors and engineers. Sticking points are rest rules, labor availability and the railroads’ desire to shift…