On the heels of China’s announcement of a 90-day tariff pause, U.S. official Bensent called it “a bit too early” — stating the President is still reviewing whether to raise tariffs on August 12. For freight forwarders and importers, this signals one thing: the U.S.-China trade truce might not last.
Freight Market Snapshot
Despite being in the traditional peak season, container rates from China to the U.S. remain low. This reflects weak demand and uncertainty among shippers. Many are hesitant to commit to large-volume shipments due to potential policy shifts.
What This Means for Logistics Professionals
From a freight forwarding perspective, Bensent’s remarks reveal:
- Uncertainty remains high. Even with low rates, clients are unsure whether to ship now or wait.
- Rates are attractive — but risky. Low freight rates tempt exporters, but a sudden tariff increase could wipe out cost savings.
- Fast, compliant shipping matters more than ever. Timing and paperwork will make the difference in minimizing customs impact.
How Zcyt Logistics Helps
At Zcyt Logistics, we provide our clients with:
- Real-time tariff updates to stay ahead of political moves
- Flexible shipping plans to adapt quickly to changes
- Door-to-door DDP services that reduce customs risk
Conclusion:
As the 90-day clock ticks, the smart move isn’t just finding cheap freight — it’s securing stable, fast, and tariff-conscious logistics solutions. Whether or not August brings new duties, being prepared is the only certainty.