Logistics Pulse

In this episode, we break down how the latest U.S.–China trade talks in Madrid could reshape global freight. From the fragile tariff truce and the proposed TikTok ownership shift to China’s antitrust probe of Nvidia, we explain how these developments may drive container rate spikes, disrupt supply chains, and force shippers to rethink sourcing strategies ahead of the November deadline. You’ll also hear three actionable tips to diversify suppliers, lock in freight rates early, and prepare for tech-policy risks that can impact shipping overnight.

Trump’s tariffs are now in legal limbo after a federal appeals court ruled most of them unlawful. With a Supreme Court showdown looming, businesses face massive uncertainty: will duties be rolled back, refunds issued, or new tariffs imposed under different laws?

In this episode, we unpack what’s at stake for global trade and supply chains

• Why the court ruling challenges presidential power over tariffs
• How $140B in tariff revenue could trigger historic refund claims
• Why manufacturers are contracting (PMI at 48.7%) as uncertainty stalls investment
• The impact on shippers, carriers, and importers caught in the middle
• Practical steps to document tariff payments, manage risk, and build resilience

Tariff volatility is here to stay. Learn how your business can stay agile, protect margins, and adapt to the new reality of global trade.

On August 18, 2025, expanded Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum officially took effect, covering over 400 additional product categories and more than $320 billion in annual imports. From automotive components and home appliances to industrial equipment and coatings, these changes are reshaping sourcing strategies, trade flows, and compliance requirements across the supply chain.

In this episode, we explore:

• What’s included in the latest tariff expansion and why it matters

• How these duties affect pricing, procurement, and production planning

• The compliance essentials: HTS classifications, smelt/cast documentation, and CBP audits

Whether you're in manufacturing, logistics, or retail, this conversation offers a clear-eyed look at how policy shifts are intersecting with real-world operations, and what to watch for next.

For years, the de minimis rule allowed over $188B worth of low-value goods to enter the U.S. duty-free, fueling fast, affordable cross-border e-commerce.

That era is coming to an end.

In this episode, we break down:

• What the de minimis rule enabled, and why it’s being rolled back
• How new customs enforcement is reshaping global shipping and fulfillment
• The impact on carriers, platforms, and DTC brands
• Actionable strategies for shippers to adapt to rising compliance and cost pressures

As the rules shift, businesses must rethink how they move goods across borders. Here's what the end of de minimis means, and how to plan for what’s next.

This week, we dive into one of the most complex freight markets in recent memory. Ocean freight rates are soaring amid geopolitical risk, canal issues, and surging import demand, while the domestic trucking sector is facing stagnant demand, high costs, and shrinking margins.

Discover how Mothership is redefining local freight logistics with automation and driver self-service. In this episode, we explore the tech that empowers carriers to manage wait times, adjust arrival windows, and schedule redeliveries right in-app—without support intervention. Learn how these tools reduce friction, improve transparency, and cut costs for both carriers and shippers. We also dive into real-time ETA updates, predictable billing, and how AI-driven workflows let Mothership scale efficiently while delivering a better experience for everyone involved.

Big changes are coming August 1st: the US is set to impose 25% tariffs on key imports from Japan and South Korea, transforming trade relations with two of its closest allies.

In this episode, we unpack what this really means:

• The strategy behind reciprocal tariffs on allies
• Potential supply chain disruptions for critical goods
• The economic risks and leverage on both sides
• Concrete planning tips for shippers, carriers, and supply chain managers

If you’re navigating global trade or logistics, you’ll want to hear the inside story and learn how to prepare for a more transactional, unpredictable trade landscape.

President Trump’s sweeping spending and tax bill narrowly passed the Senate; now it heads back to the House for a final showdown before the July 4th deadline. 

In this episode, we unpack the high-stakes political developments and what they really mean for freight, logistics, and supply chain professionals. From tax cuts and deficit impacts to tariff strategy and military spending priorities, we break down six key takeaways to help you plan for volatility, navigate trade risks, and identify new logistics opportunities in a shifting policy landscape. Stay informed and get ahead of the changes shaping your business.

Ceasefire or not, global shipping is still in survival mode. On this episode of Logistics Pulse, we unpack the unseen risks shaping freight decisions right now, from unstable trade routes to delayed deliveries, and why surface-level rate trends can be misleading.

We cover:

• Why shippers can’t rely on historical transit times
• How to build flexibility into contracts and fulfillment networks
• What supply chain leaders must do to stay ahead of the next disruption

Autonomous trucks and warehouse robots get all the attention, but the real AI revolution in supply chains is happening behind the scenes. In this episode of Logistics Pulse, we explore how workflow automation is delivering faster and more measurable ROI than high-profile hardware investments.

We break down how AI is helping shippers avoid costly billing errors by flagging missing accessorials before they happen. This single feature has already saved customers over $1 million.

Learn why automating admin tasks like quoting, exception handling, and service selection is one of the most effective ways to implement AI today. We also highlight how Mothership’s approach of "inform, not override" keeps humans in control while improving speed and accuracy.

If you're looking to use AI in a way that delivers results now, not years from now, this episode is for you.