Freight Pulse & Law Update: CBP Compliance Deadline Looms as Ocean Rates Hold Peak Levels

Ocean freight remains expensive and operationally fragile. Asia–U.S. West Coast spot rates reached approximately $7,621 per FEU, while Asia–Europe rates eased from summer peaks. The global WCI held near $4,465 per 40-foot container.

Why are ocean rates still elevated?

Typhoon Saudel disrupted schedules around Shanghai and Ningbo, creating berth, gate, and drayage uncertainty even as core terminals resume operations. The Panama Canal also reduced daily transits from 34 to 32, adding pressure amid the Hormuz crisis. German and Dutch port strikes create further schedule risk for Europe-bound cargo.

Plan for longer lead times, protect allocation, and compare alternate gateways before peak-season capacity tightens again.

• Confirm booking windows earlier than normal.

• Add buffer days for East China cargo.

• Review exposure to Panama-dependent services.

• Track carrier surcharges and blank sailings weekly.

What changes for importers on September 18?

CBP may void an Importer of Record number when Form 5106 information is incomplete, inaccurate, outdated, or tied to a third-party address or contact. The Federal Register notice sets enhanced enforcement for September 18 under Executive Order 14411. A 50% minimum penalty floor for covered customs violations took effect September 1.

Verify the legal name, EIN, physical address, phone, email, and broker power of attorney now. Do not substitute a broker, forwarder, registered agent, or service-center address for the importer’s actual information.

What should carriers review after Brake Safety Week?

CVSA’s Brake Safety Week concluded August 29. An Arizona I-40 blitz removed 119 combined trucks and drivers from service, while FreightWaves reported 99 drivers out of service across multiple enforcement actions. Review brakes, drums, rotors, inspection records, and corrective-action logs before dispatch.

The Jones Act waiver extends through November 15, but foreign-flag movements require a Vessel Availability Request through MARAD and the Department of War.

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