Freight Pulse & Law Update: New Tariff Headwinds, Easier Hazmat Rules, and CBP's September Crackdown

What changed for shippers this week?

Trade risk is widening from tariffs and sanctions to compliance data, hazmat documentation, and rail exports. Importers and exporters should update landed-cost models, shipment procedures, and master data before September deadlines arrive.

Tariffs, sanctions, and Hormuz disruption

New U.S.–Canada tariffs and Canada’s retaliatory measures are adding cost pressure across targeted product categories. At the same time, new Iran sanctions could complicate U.S.–China trade by increasing scrutiny of Chinese companies, banks, carriers, and energy-linked transactions. Review HS classifications, country-of-origin records, Incoterms, and tariff pass-through clauses now. (Freightos)

Iran and Oman are also promoting a temporary shipping corridor through the Strait of Hormuz. However, traffic remains dramatically below normal, with reported vessel movements at a small fraction of pre-crisis levels. Expect elevated insurance, routing, fuel, and transit-time risk. (Breakbulk)

September compliance deadlines

PHMSA’s hazmat changes take effect September 3. Qualifying domestic surface shipments may use a smaller 25 mm Limited Quantity mark. The Materials of Trade exception also expands for certain lithium batteries, while emergency response information may be maintained electronically when immediately accessible. Confirm packaging, labels, training, and system records before switching procedures. (PHMSA)

Beginning September 18, CBP may void an Importer of Record number immediately if Form 5106 data is inaccurate or incomplete. Verify the importer’s physical address, email, phone, EIN, and direct broker power of attorney. (CBP Form 5106 notice)

What should businesses do now?

• Test tariff and sanctions scenarios.

• Audit hazmat files and lithium battery workflows.

• Correct Form 5106 records.

• Prepare rail data for ACE electronic export manifests, effective October 26, 2026; enforcement begins October 26, 2027. (CBP rail rule)

• Keep carriers inspection-ready during DOT Brake Safety Week.

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