The recent increase in tariffs on Chinese goods, coupled with new restrictions on de minimis shipments under Section 321, has created significant challenges for importers and logistics providers alike. What was once a streamlined process for small package imports has become a complex logistical puzzle.
Read also: How Shippers can Respond to Fast-Changing Trade and Tariff Policy Changes
Businesses that previously relied on a predictable, expedited shipping model must now break down larger shipments into multiple informal entries under the $2,500 threshold, a process that is proving nearly impossible for many.
Delays, increased costs, and compliance hurdles are creating ripple effects across supply chains, leaving businesses scrambling for alternatives to avoid major disruptions.
For companies that move high volumes of small package imports, these regulatory shifts underscore the need for agility in both operations and compliance. Businesses relying on manual processes are finding themselves at a disadvantage, struggling to meet new requirements while maintaining delivery timelines.
Meanwhile, those equipped with advanced customs compliance technology have a massive competitive advantage, enabling them to quickly adapt, minimize disruption, and keep cargo moving.
One example is the ability to automatically convert Type 86 Entries into Informal or Formal Entries as needed. Instead of manually recalculating and adjusting thousands of shipments, customs brokers and importers leveraging the right technology can process these changes seamlessly, ensuring compliance while avoiding costly delays. In an industry where reliability is paramount, customers won’t soon forget which partners were able to maintain smooth operations amid uncertainty.
As trade policies continue to shift, the ability to respond quickly and efficiently will separate industry leaders from those left playing catch-up. For logistics providers, importers, and supply chain stakeholders, staying ahead means investing in solutions that not only support day-to-day efficiency but also provide the flexibility to navigate an increasingly complex global trade environment.
