Explore every episode of the podcast Logistics Pulse

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.

President Trump says the U.S.-China trade deal is “done,” but what does that really mean for global freight and domestic supply chains? We break down the real impact of the recently announced trade framework from London.

With tariffs locked at a cumulative 55% on most Chinese imports, we unpack how this deal is shaping sourcing decisions, port congestion, freight volumes, and inventory planning. We explore why Beijing hasn’t confirmed the terms, why freight volumes are still well below 2023 levels, and how retailers are managing a peak season defined by cost constraints and caution.

In this episode, we explore how vertical integration can help businesses protect themselves from rising tariffs and trade uncertainty. Featuring real-world insights and a deep dive into Canada Goose’s supply chain strategy, we break down how relocating or internalizing production within the USMCA region can offer significant cost savings, resilience, and agility. Learn how to evaluate tariff exposure, model potential savings, and decide if vertical integration is the right hedge for your business. Perfect for supply chain leaders, trade analysts, and global operations teams.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025 just passed the House, and it’s poised to reshape the logistics landscape. In this episode, we break down exactly what the bill means for freight and supply chain operators.

From 100% bonus depreciation on trucks and warehouses to the repeal of the $800 de minimis threshold on imports, this legislation combines aggressive incentives with rising costs. We cover five key impacts: capital investment, freight volume shifts, import cost hikes, labor pressures, and long-term financial risk. Tune in for actionable strategies to protect your margins and plan for the road ahead.

In this episode, we explore how rising tariffs and labor shortages are accelerating America’s push to bring manufacturing home. But it’s not policy alone making it happen—it’s automation. From AI-powered freight routing to robotic factory floors, automation is transforming sourcing, production, warehousing, and delivery.

We break down how automation:

• Cuts labor costs and boosts supply chain resilience
• Enables rapid scaling of domestic manufacturing
• Helps shippers avoid costly delays and adjustment charges

We also examine the roadblocks: job displacement, high setup costs, and a massive skills gap—and what needs to change to keep the momentum going.

On May 12, the U.S. and China agreed to a 90-day pause on steep tariffs, lowering duties on imports and offering businesses a rare chance to regroup. U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods dropped from 145% to 30%, and China reduced its own from 125% to 10%.

In this episode, we walk through three strategies companies can use during the truce:

• Accelerate imports to capture short-term savings

• Shift sourcing to countries like Vietnam, Mexico, or India

• Focus on cost optimization while staying flexible

We also look at how seasonality should shape your decision and what to watch for ahead of the August deadline. Whether you’re in retail, manufacturing, or logistics, this episode offers a clear framework for making smart, time-sensitive moves.

What do 145% tariffs, a high-stakes meeting in Switzerland, and a 45% recession forecast have in common? This week’s Logistics Pulse episode. We break down what the latest US-China trade talks could mean for global commerce, from potential tariff rollbacks to long-term policy shifts. You’ll hear:- What Treasury Secretary Bessent and Trade Rep Greer are really after in Switzerland- Why Goldman Sachs thinks tariffs may drop soon—and why that might not matter- How businesses should navigate ongoing economic uncertainty- Why diversification and demand vigilance are more important than everWhether you're running supply chains or just watching freight rates, this episode is your guide to making sense of a volatile moment in trade.

Tariff engineering isn’t a loophole. It’s a powerful strategy that global brands use to reduce import duties through thoughtful product design, smart HTS classification, and deliberate logistics planning. In this episode, we unpack how companies like Columbia Sportswear save millions by rethinking everything from shirt pockets to packaging configurations. With the 2025 U.S.-China tariffs in full effect, we explore the role of bonded warehouses, foreign trade zones, and sourcing strategies in creating real cost advantages across apparel, electronics, automotive, and medical supply chains.

President Trump's tariffs on Chinese goods have forced U.S. importers to rethink and reconfigure their supply chains, especially with no clear end in sight for the elevated tariff rates. We explore the strategies major shippers are using to avoid higher costs and consider whether they are sustainable as the summer shipping peak approaches.

Mothership founder and CEO Aaron Peck shares insights on how Chinese manufacturers and exporters have reacted to the U.S.-China trade war and what steps they might take to protect their businesses.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/3RyBVAM

https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/21/trump-tariffs-import-surge-tax-free-foreign-trade-zones.html

https://www.ft.com/content/6114c580-70db-4de2-b19f-d4dbebd3214f

The de minimis exemption allows foreign shipments valued at $800 or less to enter the U.S. without paying duties, tariffs or other taxes, and with minimal review and paperwork. Some companies, such as the e-commerce giants Shein and Temu, have built their entire business models around the rule, which critics have called an unfair tax loophole. We break down whether the de minimis exemption will survive as the U.S.-China trade war intensifies, and examine the signs that this shipping loophole might end sooner rather than later.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/4jnEBxd

https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/fedex-china-us-import-fee-de-minimis-surcharge/745296/

President Donald Trump paused reciprocal tariffs on more than 180 countries and economies this week, but hiked tariffs on Chinese imports up to 125%. We break down how U.S.-China tariffs are changing supply chains, impacting freight costs and putting pressure on business logistics across industries like electronics, cars, packaging materials and everyday consumer goods.

We explore how companies have already adapted to the tariffs, including China's retaliatory tariffs of 84% on U.S. goods, to keep their supply chains moving. We unpack some companies' new sourcing strategies and logistics shifts and what the tariffs mean for company balance sheets, customer wallets and the economy in 2025.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/3EijdKq

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/how-trumps-latest-tariffs-could-affect-your-personal-spending

Shipping nationwide LTL is challenging. Moving freight across the country comes with logistical hurdles, high costs, increased risks of cargo damage or theft due to frequent handling, and limited visibility into shipment locations. It's enough to throw a wrench into even the most sophisticated supply chains.

We reveal how some savvy businesses are cutting transit times in half and reducing costs by 25% or more compared to traditional nationwide LTL, even on some of the most prominent lanes, like Los Angeles to New York. Here's how the nationwide LTL trick works: A shipper can get a quote on Thursday, have their shipment picked up the same day, processed at a freight facility in Los Angeles on Friday, en route on Saturday, arrive at a New York facility on Sunday and out for delivery in New York on Monday.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/4chxu6D

https://www.mothership.com/newsroom/best-ltl-company-mothership-national-us-nationwide-freight

Last-mile and final-mile logistics are the most crucial steps in the supply chain, but they are often also the most complex and costly to manage. We break down everything you need to know about last-mile delivery and final-mile logistics. Learn about the key challenges businesses face and discover how shippers are bringing down logistics costs, planning more efficient delivery routes and achieving higher customer satisfaction rates.

Get the latest insights into the most clever strategies top businesses use to optimize last-mile and final-mile logistics. We'll reveal top shippers' technology and the best tactics proven to enhance supply chain efficiency. We provide a comprehensive look at how the last mile is transforming the delivery and transportation processes—no matter the industry.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/4iMHPKt

https://www.mothership.com/newsroom/best-last-mile-delivery-logistics-solution-mothership-ltl-shipping

President Donald Trump has ramped up tariffs on imported goods from China, challenging a resolution to the growing trade tensions. We dig into how major retailers and corporations have adjusted their global supply chains in response to the expanding U.S.-China trade conflict.

We unpack Walmart and other big-box retailers' strategies and negotiating tactics to keep prices low for U.S. consumers. Find out how Walmart executives are navigating the geopolitical challenges, including the Chinese government's response to their hardball business practices in the country, and how the Chinese economy might do if other U.S. businesses follow Walmart's game plan.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/4kLPTwv

https://www.wsj.com/business/retail/china-summons-walmart-for-talks-as-suppliers-complain-over-tariffs-dcafe7c4

Less than one month in office, Howard Lutnick, the 41st United States Secretary of Commerce, has already impacted the U.S. economy and global trade. We explore Secretary Lutnick's background on Wall Street as chairman and CEO of Cantor Fitzgerald and why President Donald Trump picked Lutnick to join his administration.

We also break down President Trump and Secretary Lutnick's America-First economic policy, including what is behind the administration's protectionist strategy and heavy reliance on tariffs. We look into the industries that will be the focus of future tariffs so that you can adapt your supply chain and get ahead of the changes.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/4kQmOQk

In a joint session of Congress this week, President Donald Trump shared his economic policy, including the increasing use of tariffs. On the same day, the U.S. imposed 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico and an additional 10% tax on China. We look at how Trump's tariffs have already started to change the North American supply chain.

We also break down how the trucking and freight industries in the U.S. and Canada responded to and reacted to the Canadian Trucking Alliance and American Trucking Associations' position that the logistics industry would be disproportionately impacted. We also explore why some truckers might want more tariffs and what this means for the economy and consumers' finances.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/3XuoncT

https://www.trucknews.com/supply-chain/trucking-groups-speak-out-against-trump-imposed-tariffs/1003194561/

According to a recent study, 72% of businesses worldwide reported significant supply chain disruptions in 2023. Delayed shipments, higher costs due to fuel price hikes, material shortages and uncertainty around policy or tax changes related to international trade are all becoming more common, which begs the question: Is the world supply chain falling apart?

We explain the three most common ways supply chains fail and how businesses can avoid a repeat. We also explore whether there are any surefire ways companies can use to future-proof their supply chains and operations.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/4gZGL4g

New York City’s congestion pricing toll reshaped traffic and business operations in Manhattan. Now, the Department of Transportation has taken its first steps to end the toll as President Trump promised on the campaign trail. We examine the federal government’s claims, including issues of fairness, and whether New York residents and businesses agree with the claims.

We also run the numbers on the congestion pricing toll, which went into effect on Jan. 5, to understand if the program might have unfairly impacted trucking. Finally, we analyze how it affected freight movement into New York and the overall supply chain, including business deliveries, service calls and operations.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/3Xbu8fh

Global trade patterns and geopolitical norms are changing faster than ever. Mexico recently beat out China as the top trading partner for goods to the U.S. We look into how Mexico overtook China in trade, how politics has impacted businesses around the world andwhat shippers, carriers and others in the logistics industry should know to take advantage of new opportunities.

We also explain exactlyhow businesses have future-proofed their businesses in response to the quick and frequent changes in world trade and politics. We dig intohow nearshoring in Mexico really works, whether it can work long-term and why companies outside of China, Mexico and the U.S. are searching for new suppliers and trade partners to protect their bottom lines.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/3EE5rlm

https://www.mckinsey.com/mgi/our-research/geopolitics-and-the-geometry-of-global-trade-2025-update

In less than three weeks in office, President Donald Trump has threatened to impose tariffs on imported goods from Colombia, Canada, Mexico, China, the European Union, South Korea and other countries and economies. We explore the start-and-stop nature of Trump's tariffs and the ultimate goals behind his announcements.

We examine the impacts of Trump's trade policies on local economies and various industries, even as he never implemented some of his promised tariffs. We dig into how some businesses have responded and what we can learn from their revamped supply-chain strategies, including the new routes some shipments now take to the U.S., what technology they use and if they're creating commodities and jobs closer to home.

Finally, we examine the $54-billion "de minimis" trade loophole and how some companies used it to avoid tariffs and duties—no matter where the products came from. We also look into what happens now that Trump has closed the loophole and why it might severely impact some companies' business models, especially in e-commerce and direct-to-consumer industries.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/3Eorz35

https://www.mothership.com/newsroom/trump-tariffs-canada-mexico-china-trade-strategy

Losses from cargo theft total $455 million in the U.S. alone, and it impacts more than the carriers, shippers and receivers receiving freight. We investigate the most-targeted shippers and freight, the tactics thieves and criminals use when targeting freight to steal, and why cargo theft may be partly to blame for the stubborn inflation and rising grocery and retail prices.

We share some of the best ways to fight fraud and cargo theft, including how to vet carriers and technology providers and how tech can stop some incidents before they happen. We also explain everything you want to know about how cargo theft insurance works, including the cost of coverage, the claims process and how fast you can get repaid.

Finally, we examine how logistics professionals secure the supply chain, including which technologies and strategies they use so you can implement them, too.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/3WEMHZc

https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/cargo-theft-us-canada-soars-record-2024

https://landline.media/cargo-theft-loss-reaches-nearly-half-a-billion-in-2024/

https://www.freightwaves.com/news/strategic-cargo-theft-costing-carriers-brokers-millions-in-freight-in-q1

President Donald Trump began his second term at the White House and has already introduced bold new policies. We explore Trump's America-first executive order focused on trade and whether he implemented tariffs on Canada, Mexico, China and other economies as promised on the campaign trail.

We explain how tariffs work, when Trump's tariffs could go into effect, what the rates might be and how companies can adjust their supply chains and operations based on how his tariffs worked in his first term.

We also dig into Trump's infrastructure policies and how his announced plans might differ from the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

Finally, we share tactical advice on how companies can adjust their supply chain and logistics strategy to weather the significant changes in Trump's second term.

Get started with less-than-truckload and same-day delivery with Mothership: https://bit.ly/4jvDE6i