Your Insights in Global Freight and Customs

Why Cargo
Insurance is a Must

When the Unexpected
Happens at Sea

Keep Clear on Cargo Insurance with Coppersmith

Cargo Overboard? A Reminder That Insurance Isn’t Optional

On September 9th at the Port of Long Beach, several shipping containers fell off a vessel during unloading—reminding us all that things can go wrong fast in freight. While no one was injured, the incident highlights how cargo insurance is essential—not optional.

Many shippers don’t realize carriers have limited liability and may not cover loss or damage. At Coppersmith, we help you secure the proper protection, from physical damage to legal risks like General Average.

Don’t let your next shipment sail unprotected.
Let’s talk about insurance before something goes overboard.

Tariff Litigation Update:

What You Need to Know Now

Tariff Update: Legal Ruling, Uncertain Outcomes

A federal appeals court has ruled that many Trump-era emergency tariffs were improperly enacted—but they remain in place for now. In this tariff litigation update, we explain the decision, why tariffs must still be paid, and how importers can prepare for potential retroactive claims. With the Supreme Court having announced they'll take up the case and briefs starting to be submitted, legal and trade uncertainty could stretch into 2026.

Don’t wait for clarity—talk to your Coppersmith rep about how to stay compliant today.

Tariff Update: Legal Ruling, Uncertain Outcomes

Update on Reciprocal Tariffs:

Imports from India Face Higher Duty Rates

Updates expected soon, stay tuned for changes.

India Tariff Update: Higher Duties Effective Aug 27

Beginning August 27, 2025, the United States applied an additional 25% reciprocal tariff on articles imported from India. This comes on top of the existing 25% rate, effectively doubling duty exposure for many importers.

Certain goods under HTS 9903.01.85–89 may qualify for exemptions, but careful classification is required.

Coppersmith’s team is already reviewing product codes, advising on mitigation, and tracking policy announcements so our clients stay informed and compliant.

Shared Stories

A major transpacific carrier has assured customers it will keep service levels steady as the U.S. prepares to roll out a new port-fee regime for China-linked tonnage, slated to begin October 14. The line acknowledged operational challenges but pledged consistent capacity and schedule quality. Analysts note carriers may reshuffle networks—deploying different vessel types and testing routings via Mexico, Canada, or Caribbean hubs—which could tighten capacity near term. Recent data also show fewer China-built ships calling the U.S. Meanwhile, final rules aren’t yet published, and some observers think the deadline could slip, keeping shippers watchful but still booking ahead.

President Trump took to Truth Social and announced three new intended target industries for additional duties. The first is a 50% tariff on kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities and associated products. The second, 100% on branded or patented pharmaceutical products unless a company is building a plant in the United States. The third is 25% on heavy trucks made outside the US. As of Friday afternoon, September 26th, these changes have not been detailed, nor published in the Federal Register. Coppersmith will continue to monitor if and when these additional tariffs - which the President announced would be effective October 1st. Watch this space.

Transpacific Space Situation

Upcoming Public Holidays

Cambodia Branch Office
Commemoration Day of King’s Father, Norodom Sihanouk
October 15

King’s Coronation Day, Norodom Sihamoni
October 29

China Branch Office
National Day & Mid-Autumn Festival
October 1 - 8

Hong Kong Office
National Day
October 1 

The day following the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival 
October 7

Chung Yeung Festival
October 29 

India Branch Offices
Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti
October 2 

Diwali / Deepavali
October 20 

Bhaidooj
October 23 

Indonesia Branch Offices
No Public Holiday
October

Korea Branch Office
National Foundation Day
October 3 

Korean Thanksgiving Day
October 6 - 7 

Substitution for Korean Thanksgiving Day
October 8 

Hangul Proclamation Day
October 9 

Malaysia Branch Office
Deepavali 
October 20 

Philippines Branch Office
No Public Holiday
October

Singapore Branch Office
Deepavali 
October 20 

Taiwan Branch Office
Mid-Autumn Festival
October 6 

National Day
October 10

Taiwan Restoration Day Holiday
October 24

Thailand Branch Office
H.M.King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great Memorial Day
October 13 

Chulalongkorn Day
October 23 

US: LA / New York Office
Columbus Day
October 13 

Vietnam Branch Office
No Public Holiday
October

Office Locations:

Southern China (HQ, 3)

Northern China (4)

Yangtze River Area (3)

Eastern China (2)

Fujian (2)

Atlanta

Chicago

Dallas

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New York

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