For decades, US businesses have thrived on global trade, benefiting from relatively predictable rules and preferential systems that supported both imports and exports.
Today, however, shifting trade policies are rewriting the operating environment.
Importers and exporters alike are facing tighter compliance requirements, higher cost pressures, and ongoing tariff volatility. These changes demand new levels of agility in sourcing, pricing, and supply chain management.
The elimination of the “de minimis” exemption on 29 August has transformed import dynamics. Every shipment entering the US—regardless of value—is now subject to customs clearance and duty assessment. This adds friction to cross-border e-commerce, particularly for small parcels that once moved swiftly and cheaply under simplified clearance procedures.
Tariff structures remain another moving target. While some categories face modest duties, others—depending on product origin or components within supply chains—are subject to steep increases of 40–50% or more. This unpredictability puts pressure on margins, complicates sourcing strategies, and makes cost planning more difficult.
On the export side, US manufacturers and agricultural producers are encountering retaliatory tariffs and shifting market access conditions abroad. Meeting overseas demand now requires careful navigation of bilateral deals, quota restrictions, and evolving partner-country regulations.
Adjusting Trade Strategies
To remain competitive, many US importers are diversifying their supply bases, shifting orders away from tariff-exposed regions and exploring alternative manufacturing hubs in Southeast Asia, Latin America, or near-shoring within North America. While transition costs can be high, spreading risk across multiple sourcing markets is becoming an essential resilience strategy.
Exporters are also re-evaluating how they reach overseas buyers. Some are pursuing local partnerships or joint ventures to offset tariff exposure, while others are investing in bonded warehousing, in-market distribution centres, or third-party logistics networks to keep inventory closer to customers.
At the same time, pricing strategies are under intense review. Passing cost increases to consumers risks eroding demand, yet failing to adjust can undermine profitability. Achieving balance requires transparent communication with customers, as well as supply chain optimisation to reduce overheads where possible.
The Administrative Challenge
Beyond tariffs, importers and exporters are grappling with expanding paperwork and compliance obligations. Customs procedures are becoming more complex, and sector-specific requirements—whether for product standards, sustainability, or security—add further layers of administration.
For SMEs in particular, this can strain resources, making strong logistics partnerships and reliable digital visibility tools essential to avoid delays and penalties.
Despite these headwinds, international trade remains central to US growth. The domestic market is vast, but exporting opens additional channels for revenue, while imports support competitiveness and choice for US consumers. The question is not whether to trade, but how to do so more intelligently under new conditions.
How Global Forwarding Supports US Businesses
At Global Forwarding, we understand the evolving challenges facing US importers and exporters. With teams based across the United States and around the world, we deliver logistics solutions designed to keep your supply chain agile and compliant.
From customs clearance and tariff optimisation to global sourcing support, storage, and distribution, Global Forwarding provides end-to-end visibility and control. Our Clarity technology platform ensures you know where your shipments are, while our local experts help you adapt to changing trade rules and market realities.
Whether you’re sourcing globally, expanding exports, or navigating new compliance hurdles, Global Forwarding is here to keep your business moving—confidently, competitively, and compliantly.
