CLIFF NOTES 
Top Logistics Headlines This Week

Domestic Freight Management

Older Trucks to be Banned from Port of NY-NJ

As of January 1, 2018, trucks that are more than 22 years old will be banned from operating at the Port of New York - New Jersey. This will eliminate about 200 of the 9,000 trucks that currently serve the busy East Coast port complex. The new rule is one of many initiatives by the port authority to reduce pollution. 

ELD Update

It has been just over one week since the ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mandate took effect. According to reports, service providers have received an immense number of last minute orders and customer service calls while truckers have cited delays in device deliveries, issues with installation and difficulty with smartphone applications. Click here to read more. 

Harmonized Tariff Schedule Changes 

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has announced its annual changes to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) which are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2018. Slight classification changes could result in duty rate increases or decreases. Importers are recommended to verify product classifications and review corresponding duty rates closely.

GSP Set to Expire on December 31

Please note that GSP (Generalized System of Preferences) is set to expire on December 31, 2017. GSP can still be flagged on customs entries, however, duty will be due and paid to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). If GSP is renewed retroactively, clients will receive refunds from CBP for eligible entries. Please note that CBP has stated it will not allow post import GSP claims after it expires. Click here to read more.

Congestion in Chittagong Continues

Congestion is continuing to impact imports and exports at the Port of Chittagong, the largest cargo gateway in Bangladesh. Many carriers continue to impose congestion surcharges and delays are averaging around five days. Nearby transshipment hubs including Colombo, Tanjung Pelepas and Singapore are also reportedly being impacted.

Retail Consolidation

Walmart Works to Expedite Post-Holiday Return Process

Walmart debuted a new program called Mobile Express Returns this week in an effort to simplify the post-holiday rush of returns. The new program allows customers to begin the return process at home on the Walmart app and upon arrival to the store proceed to an express lane equipped with a QR code scanner. Click here to read more. 

Warehousing Space Expected to be Limited Again in 2018

Tight supply and rising costs for warehousing and distribution space is expected to continue in the New Year. According to recent reports, strong demand and rising rent costs have especially impacted land-constrained seaport locations and key inland distribution hubs.