Record US container imports this month are clearing the ports smoothly but choking the inland rail network. If you move ocean freight IPI through Chicago or the Midwest, this is already adding cost and transit time to your cargo, and it will stay with us through the summer. The ports themselves are flowing well. The problem has moved inland, to the rail ramps and the drayage leg.
Most importers are focused on tariff rates. The bigger issue is qualification.
A key date is approaching regarding changes to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) e-Filing requirements. Transmodal strongly suggests that importers review this information and take steps to ensure they are ready for the July 8, 2026 start date. Note that it is up to the importer to make sure the necessary information is communicated to the proper parties (including your customs br...
For many importers, there's real money in that number worth paying attention to.
Most importers are making the same mistake right now: assuming the court ruling automatically means tariff relief is coming. It doesn’t.
Most importers are focused on getting IEEPA refunds filed. Very few are focused on how easily those refunds can now be intercepted, delayed, or compromised.
