From Tariffs to Carrier Overhauls: How Supply Chain Changes Are Impacting Shippers

The logistics industry never stands still, and 2025 is already proving to be a year of major shifts. From evolving trade policies to operational overhauls by major carriers, shippers must stay ahead of the curve to maintain efficiency and control costs.

At Intelligent Audit, we’re always monitoring industry trends to help shippers optimize their transportation spend, streamline operations, and navigate disruptions. Below, we’ve curated the eight most critical industry developments that could impact your business—and what they mean for your supply chain strategy.

1. UPS SurePost’s Postal Service Split: What It Means for Shippers

UPS has decided to take full control of SurePost deliveries, severing its reliance on the U.S. Postal Service. While this move is aimed at improving service reliability, it comes with an average 9.9% rate increase—a factor shippers must account for in their transportation budgets. If your business relies on SurePost for last-mile delivery, it’s time to assess whether alternative solutions could better balance cost and performance.

Why It Matters to Shippers: Expect higher last-mile delivery costs if you use SurePost. Businesses should analyze whether UPS’s internal network offers the same efficiency or explore other cost-effective last-mile solutions.

2. FedEx Facility Closures: A Sign of Network Optimization

FedEx’s ongoing Network 2.0 initiative will close three major shipping centers this year as the company merges Express and Ground networks to cut costs. With reduced pickup and delivery infrastructure, shippers must be prepared for potential delays or service adjustments in affected regions. The upside? These efficiency moves could eventually bring more streamlined operations.

Why It Matters to Shippers: Reduced FedEx facilities could mean longer transit times and potential service disruptions, especially in affected regions. Companies relying on FedEx should evaluate backup carrier options and monitor service performance.

3. U.S. Postal Service Faces Pushback on Its Network Overhaul

USPS’s attempt to modernize its operations and consolidate services has met resistance from regulators who warn of potential service declines and negative impacts on rural areas. If your business relies on USPS for cost-effective shipping, it’s worth monitoring how these changes unfold—and considering alternative carriers for more reliable service.

Why It Matters to Shippers: If your supply chain relies on USPS, particularly for lower-cost deliveries, these network changes could impact reliability and speed. Diversifying carrier options may be necessary.

4. USPS’s Temporary China Parcel Suspension Sparks Uncertainty

The USPS briefly halted inbound packages from China, adding another layer of confusion to international shipping logistics. Though the suspension was reversed within hours, it highlights the uncertainty surrounding customs policies and cross-border shipping regulations. Businesses dependent on e-commerce imports should monitor policy changes closely to avoid unexpected disruptions.

Why It Matters to Shippers: This temporary disruption signals potential instability in cross-border logistics. Shippers should keep a close eye on trade policy changes and have contingency plans for alternative import routes.

5. Trump Delays Suspension of Duty-Free Exception on Chinese Goods

The recent decision to delay the suspension of the de minimis rule, which allows duty-free imports for packages under $800, offers temporary relief for shippers relying on low-value shipments from China. This exemption, originally slated for removal under a new 10% tariff, remains in place until systems can handle tariff collection efficiently. The rule has supported the rapid growth of e-commerce platforms like Shein and Temu, contributing to a significant increase in package volumes. For shippers, this delay provides short-term stability but signals potential cost and process adjustments in the near future.

Why it matters:
Shippers must stay alert to policy changes, as the eventual removal of the exemption will likely increase costs and impact operational strategies.

6. Tariffs Are Making Customs Brokers More Essential Than Ever

With new tariffs on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico, navigating compliance has become more complex. Customs brokers have become invaluable partners in helping businesses reduce delays, manage duties, and ensure shipments keep moving. If your organization is dealing with new tariff-related challenges, a trusted customs broker can help mitigate disruptions.

Why It Matters to Shippers: Increased tariffs mean higher costs and potential clearance delays. Customs brokers can provide guidance on duty minimization strategies and compliance solutions.

7. Canada Retaliates with 25% Tariffs on U.S. Goods

Following the U.S.'s decision to impose tariffs on Canadian imports, Canada has responded with its own 25% tariffs on a wide range of U.S. products, from food and beverages to vehicles and consumer goods. These trade tensions could drive higher shipping costs and supply chain volatility, so shippers must prepare for potential pricing adjustments and sourcing shifts.

Why It Matters to Shippers: If your business imports from or exports to Canada, expect cost increases and possible supply chain disruptions. It may be necessary to renegotiate contracts or explore alternative trade routes.

8. Longshore Contract Nears Ratification—What It Means for Port Operations

After a prolonged labor dispute, the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) is set to ratify a new six-year contract, offering a 62% wage increase for dockworkers. While the deal may bring stability to East and Gulf Coast ports, it also means higher labor costs—a factor that could translate into increased fees for shippers relying on containerized freight.

Why It Matters to Shippers: Port congestion and higher container handling costs could become more prevalent as ports adjust to increased labor expenses. Importers and exporters should plan for potential rate hikes.

Stay Ahead of Supply Chain Challenges with Intelligent Audit

As these industry shifts unfold, having a strategic logistics partner is more important than ever. At Intelligent Audit, we help shippers navigate complex transportation landscapes through freight audit & recovery, business intelligence, data-driven insights, and an expert professional services team that reduce costs and improve efficiency.

Want to future-proof your shipping strategy? Let’s connect. Contact us today to see how we can help you stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.