As we move through 2025, global trade is shifting rapidly. Geopolitical tensions, changing tariffs, and growing demands for sustainability are challenging businesses to stay agile. In April, two key developments are set to reshape eCommerce logistics: the potential end of the US de minimis exemption and the push for greener supply chains. At NGT, we’re committed to helping businesses navigate these challenges seamlessly, providing tailored logistics solutions and ensuring compliance in an increasingly complex global market.
Let’s explore how these changes could impact your business and how NGT can help you stay ahead.
US trade policy changes:
What you need to know about the de minimis exemption
The U.S. is undergoing a significant shift in its trade policy, and businesses engaged in cross-border eCommerce must be prepared. On April 2, 2025, the Trump administration announced sweeping changes to U.S. tariffs that will impact global trade, especially for companies relying on the de minimis exemption — a duty-free threshold that has been pivotal in facilitating small-value shipments into the U.S.
The de minimis exemption, which allowed goods valued under $800 to enter the U.S. without duties, will be phased out for all countries starting in May 2025. China and Hong Kong will be the first to see this change, with the exemption ending on May 2, 2025. This marks a major shift that could have profound effects on businesses that rely on this duty-free threshold to keep shipping costs low.
Read more about de minimis changes here.
What this means for your business
The elimination of de minimis could cause disruption to supply chains, especially for e-commerce brands sending low-value parcels. In addition to higher costs from tariffs, companies may face longer clearance times and stricter customs procedures. This could significantly impact air freight volumes, fulfilment centres, and logistics operations in countries like Mexico and Canada, where many goods bound for the U.S. are processed.
For UK-based companies, this change presents an even more pressing issue. With the UK being one of the largest e-commerce exporters to the U.S., many businesses will need to rethink their compliance strategies and shipping models to mitigate the potential impact.
How NGT helps you adapt:
At NG Terminal Ltd, we understand the complexities of cross-border trade and are here to help businesses navigate evolving challenges. Our comprehensive suite of logistics and customs services offers a proactive approach:
- Customs compliance & clearance: As U.S. policies evolve, we ensure that your shipments comply with the latest regulations, minimising delays and disruptions.
- Bonded warehousing: With our state-of-the-art bonded warehouse facilities, we help businesses manage excise and non-excise goods, ensuring secure storage and optimised duty payments.
- Excise goods handling: We are well-versed in managing excise goods, including alcohol, tobacco, and other restricted items, ensuring smooth operations amid the changing rules and tariffs.
Don’t forget: Our bonded warehousing services offer flexibility in managing tariff exposure. By storing goods in a bonded facility, clients can defer the payment of duties and taxes until goods are officially imported, allowing you to better manage fluctuating tariff rates and make informed decisions on when and where to release products into the market.
Whether you’re concerned about the upcoming changes to the de minimis exemption or the broader impact of tariffs, NGT provides the expertise and tools to navigate these challenges. By adapting quickly and strategically, businesses can continue to trade seamlessly across borders, ensuring minimal disruption.
Reciprocal tariffs: a closer look at the UK and U.S. trade relationship
The reciprocal tariffs between the UK and the U.S. present another layer of complexity for cross-border trade. Recent reports point out that although the UK received a “discounted” tariff rate under the new policy, the overall impact on British industries will still be significant. By redirecting U.S. exports to other markets like the EU, the UK risks a disruption in trade flows, particularly in sectors that rely heavily on U.S. exports.
As these tariffs continue to evolve, NGT remains focused on helping clients navigate these turbulent waters. Whether it’s through providing flexible bonded warehousing solutions, managing excise goods, or optimising customs compliance, we’re committed to making sure you remain agile, compliant, and competitive in the face of shifting global trade dynamics.
Leading the shift to greener supply chains:
As we approach Earth Day, sustainability is becoming a more pressing concern in the logistics industry. Freight transport is a major contributor to global emissions, and governments worldwide are pushing for greener supply chain solutions. In the UK, the government has recently announced the launch of 54 electric HGV charging hubs to accelerate the transition to zero-emissions road transport. This is an encouraging step towards a greener future for logistics, but as industry experts highlight, challenges such as cost barriers and infrastructure gaps still need to be addressed.
At NGT, we’ve recognised this and have committed ourselves to integrating sustainability into our logistics operations. Here are just a few of the green initiatives we’re pursuing:
- Reverse logistics & liquidation marketplaces: We facilitate the resale or responsible disposal of returned goods, promoting a circular economy and reducing waste in the process.
- Duty drawback services: We help businesses recover duties on returned or exported goods, improving cost efficiency and contributing to sustainability by reducing waste and encouraging responsible product movement.
- Investment in low-emission transport options: NGT is exploring partnerships and innovations that support lower-carbon transport modes, helping reduce the overall environmental impact of our logistics network.
“Sustainability is no longer optional — it’s a necessity,” says NGT Business Development Director, Shanshan Chen. “At NGT, we’re committed to helping businesses implement greener logistics solutions while maintaining cost-efficiency and operational agility.”
Adapting to change and preparing for the future:
The next few years will bring even more changes to global trade. With potential regulatory shifts, the rise of sustainable practices, and increased demand for faster, more efficient logistics solutions, businesses must be prepared to adapt. NGT is committed to providing agile, innovative logistics services that help businesses succeed in a rapidly evolving, and volatile, environment.
Is your business prepared for the changes in global trade? Businesses need a reliable partner who can guide them through the challenges that lie ahead. NGT offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to support businesses as they navigate the complexities of modern trade, from customs compliance to last-mile delivery. Our experts are here to ensure your business remains compliant, cost-efficient, and sustainable as we navigate this evolving landscape together.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you streamline your logistics strategy, stay ahead of regulatory changes, and drive greener solutions in your supply chain.
Contact Info: Website: NG Terminal Email: ngtbd@ng-terminal.com