RENO, Nev., Sept. 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ITS Logistics released the September ITS Supply Chain Report. This month, the report highlights that, although the U.S. economy showed mixed signals in August, growth and consumer spending remained positive, while inflation stubbornly remained above target. As of now, a recession doesn’t appear imminent, but momentum is clearly slowing, and economic uncertainty continues to rise heading into Q4. This news comes just as industry professionals prepare for the onset of the domestic logistics peak season, further evaluating strategies related to tariff arbitrage, assessing de minimis opportunities, seeking new warehouse locations throughout the U.S., and evaluating the trucking sector’s capacity gains.
Containerized imports at the top 10 U.S. ports fell 4.1% month-over-month in August 2025, with sharp declines at key West Coast gateways offset by gains at Seattle, Savannah, and Norfolk. The mixed results reflect both seasonal trends and shifting trade patterns as shippers respond to tariff uncertainty. Import volumes remain above pre-pandemic levels but show heightened sensitivity to policy changes, including the recent repeal of the de minimis exemption on low-value parcels and the upcoming US-China tariff truce expiration.
According to a recent article from Supply Chain Dive, the end of the de minimis exemption has the potential to create new challenges for e-commerce supply chains’ peak season plans. The exemption, which ended on August 29 for imports in the U.S., allowed those valued under $800 to enter the country duty- and tax-free. Eliminated to combat drug trafficking and prevent importers from avoiding tariffs, it was initially expected to end on July 1, 2027, thereby leaving many direct-to-consumer marketplaces scrambling to adjust their peak season strategies. Now that it has been completely eliminated, companies are struggling to adjust their operations ahead of the Q4 holiday shopping rush.
“We’re now seeing ecommerce companies implement …