Industry Resources

Learn about IHA’s cost-saving programs, including the International Housewares Shippers Association, designed to help members grow their business!

U.S. Retail Intelligence – March

February 28 – Consumers Cautious of AI Amid Growing E-Commerce Integration 39% of consumers said they have abandoned purchases while shopping due to frustrating AI interactions, such as inaccurate recommendations or poor chatbot interactions. From: HomePage News February 28 – QVC Extends Rawlinson as CEO While Posting Non-Cash Q4 Loss The new employment agreement with…

U.S. Trade Actions Aimed at China’s Maritime Dominance: What It Means for Shippers

The U.S. government has proposed some major trade actions targeting China's dominance in the maritime, logistics and shipbuilding sectors. Both the Biden and Trump administrations have been investigating this issue, and now things are heating up. The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has proposed some hefty fees on Chinese-built vessels entering U.S. ports. They're also…

Status Report on Trump Tariffs

Since taking office on Jan. 20, President Trump has issued tariffs for different countries and different products. Further confusing matters are the various starting dates and rates for the tariffs and the statutes by which President Trump can impose such tariffs. Following is a brief inventory of President Trump’s tariff announcements with the rates and starting dates and…

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…

U.S. Retail Intelligence – February

January 31 – More Consumers to Celebrate Key Holidays Throughout 2025 Consumer intentions to celebrate the various holidays through the course of 2025 are up in nine of the 14 occasions the market researcher tracks, From: HomePage News January 31 – Costco Raises Pay for Hourly Employees The company will raise the hourly wage for employees at the top of its pay scale over…

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…

U.S. Retail Intelligence – January

December 30 – Big Lots’ New Deal Could Keep up to 400 Stores Open Under the transaction, Variety Wholesalers would acquire at least 200 stores and up to two distribution centers, saving jobs in the process. From: Retail Dive December 23 – Party City to Close all Stores in Bankruptcy The party supplies specialist also announced it will close its entire footprint, which…