Freight Waves by Seabreeze – Trends and insights shaping logistics
- seabreezelogistics
- Sep 8
- 1 min read
White House unleashes new task force to tackle the tariff dodgers
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), in collaboration with Homeland Security (DHS) and Customs & Border Protection, has established a new “Trade Fraud Task Force” aimed at cracking down on importers who evade tariffs or duties. The initiative will employ civil penalties, criminal prosecutions, and enforcement under the Tariff Act of 1930 and the False Claims Act to aggressively pursue duty dodgers.
UK importers claim the end of de minimis could see prices increase
UK businesses are sounding the alarm that removing or reducing the de minimis threshold— currently allowing imports under £135 to bypass customs duty—could drive up prices for consumers. Major retailers like Sainsbury’s and Currys say ending the tax break will undercut their competitiveness, while small businesses warn of increased paperwork and shipping costs. The government is now reviewing the policy amid concerns over fairness, safety compliance, and the surge in low-value imports from overseas.
Forwarders hit as on-time performance of air cargo schedules worsens
Forwarders are under pressure as major airlines’ on-time performance for cargo flights dropped significantly in July, leading to delays, missed connections, and more unpredictable lead times. This decline is making it harder to meet service promises, increasing cost risks, and pushing forwarders to rethink operations and contracts.
Two airlines move operations to dnata's new Schiphol facility as problems 'stabilise'
Two airlines have shifted cargo operations from dnata to Swissport at Amsterdam Schiphol after major disruptions at dnata’s new automated Cargo City facility. The move, including Singapore Airlines, follows delays and tracking issues, even as dnata works to stabilize the 61,000 m² hub.
