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Navigating the Latest Tariffs: What Businesses Need to Know

By Point To Point on February, 6 2025

Recent shifts in trade policy have led to significant tariff adjustments, impacting supply chains across multiple industries and regions. As global trade dynamics continue to evolve, businesses must stay informed and proactive in adapting their sourcing, logistics, and cost management strategies.

As trade policies shift, we are frequently updating this page to reflect current duties. 

Custom "Liberation Day" Tariffs Unveiled On 4/2/25

On April 2, 2025, President Donald Trump announced a sweeping set of tariffs that extends to almost every exporter to the U.S. His announcement, deemed "Liberation Day," laid the foundation for a general baseline of 10% duties across the board that will take effect on April 5, 2025 for the vast majority of U.S. trading partners

Canada and Mexico

"Liberation Day" tariff exemptions have been limited, largely influenced by existing trade agreements or special conditions. Canada, under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), was exempted from both the 10% baseline tariff and corresponding reciprocal tariffs.

However, Canada still faces separate tariffs imposed in February 2025, specifically a 25% tariff on most goods and a 10% tariff on energy exports. These tariffs, originally introduced due to immigration and drug trafficking concerns, could later be aligned with or replaced by the new tariff structure.

Similarly, Mexico remains exempt from the newly established baseline tariffs thanks to the USMCA. Nonetheless, it continues to be subject to the separate 25% tariff introduced in February 2025, with future potential adjustments to integrate into the broader tariff framework.

China

On April 10, 2025, President Trump raised tariffs on imports from China to %145—effective immediately. 

How These Changes Impact Your Supply Chain

Tariff adjustments can significantly affect supply chains, leading to increased costs, shifting trade routes, and potential delays at ports and distribution centers. Businesses that rely on just-in-time inventory, international sourcing, and cost-efficient transportation strategies will need to reevaluate their logistics operations to stay competitive.

New trade restrictions and tariff increases could impact importers across various industries, from manufacturing and retail to automotive and e-commerce. Changes to duty exemptions, raw material costs, and sourcing regulations may require businesses to explore alternative suppliers, nearshoring strategies, or domestic production solutions to mitigate financial strain.

Companies that move goods across borders, particularly in North America, should prepare for potential customs delays, higher freight costs, and shifting trade policies that could affect how and where they do business. Ensuring supply chain flexibility and working with logistics partners that offer real-time visibility and compliance expertise will be key to navigating these challenges.

Redrawing the Supply Chain: The Ultimate Guide to Nearshoring and Reshoring   DOWNLOAD THE WHITE PAPER!  

Adapting to Change: How Averitt Can Help

While these tariff changes present challenges, they also create opportunities to rethink and optimize your supply chain. Averitt’s integrated solutions help businesses minimize disruptions and reduce costs.

1. In-House Customs Clearance Expertise

Navigating tariff changes and compliance requirements can be complex, but Averitt’s licensed in-house customs clearance team is here to help. Our experts provide:

Tariff Impact Analysis – Understand how new regulations affect your shipments
Duty Mitigation Strategies – Explore cost-saving opportunities, including alternative sourcing and trade programs
Compliance Assistance – Avoid delays and penalties with expert customs guidance

📌 Learn more about our customs clearance solutions here.

2. Diversify Your Sourcing & Explore Nearshoring

Looking to shift production closer to home? Our network supports businesses exploring nearshoring solutions in Mexico and across North America.

🔹 International Logistics Solutions – End-to-end support for global trade, including customs clearance, transportation, and compliance assistance.

3. Faster, Cost-Effective Imports with Asia Express

For businesses still sourcing from Asia, our Asia Express Service reduces transit times and improves cost-efficiency for shipments coming from China.

🔹 Asia Express Ocean – A streamlined solution for faster shipping from Asia.
🔹 Asia Express Air – When speed matters, our air freight option ensures rapid delivery with full visibility.

4. Warehousing & Fulfillment Solutions

With tariff changes impacting cross-border fulfillment, having a strategic domestic distribution plan is more important than ever. Averitt offers flexible, contract-free Distribution and Fulfillment solutions to help businesses optimize inventory placement and reduce costs.

Navigating Uncertainty with Confidence

Trade policies and tariffs will continue to evolve, but staying informed and having a flexible supply chain strategy is key. Whether you're adjusting your sourcing, shifting inventory closer to your customers, or looking for alternative shipping solutions, Averitt is here to support you.

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