CBP Update: IEEPA Duty Refund Process (CAPE)

      We want to share an important update from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regarding a new process that may create refund opportunities for importers who have paid duties under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

      CBP is introducing a new system within the ACE Portal called CAPE (Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries), which is designed to streamline how these duty refunds are requested and processed. This update follows recent court rulings directing CBP to remove IEEPA-related duties from certain entries and issue refunds where applicable.

      What you should know:

      • Centralized refund process: Eligible refunds will be grouped together and issued as consolidated payments rather than processed individually by entry
      • Electronic submission required: Refund requests must be submitted through the ACE Portal using a CAPE declaration
      • Automated duty review: CBP will remove applicable IEEPA tariffs and recalculate duties to determine refund amounts
      • Expected timing: Refunds are generally anticipated within 60–90 days after a claim is accepted, depending on CBP review
      • Electronic payment: Refunds will be issued via ACH, so ensuring your banking details in ACE are current is important

      Additional considerations:

      • The initial rollout applies to certain unliquidated entries and those within a limited timeframe after liquidation
      • Certain entry types or conditions (e.g., protests, drawback, or other restrictions) may impact eligibility
      • Importers or their authorized brokers must initiate the process through ACE

      We are currently reviewing how this process applies across our customer base and will be following up with additional information, including how we can assist with filings.

      In the meantime, if you believe you may have entries impacted by IEEPA duties, we recommend reviewing your records and confirming your ACE Portal access and ACH enrollment are up to date.

      Please reach out to our team with any questions—we’re here to help you navigate this process.

      URGENT UPDATE: Supreme Court Ruling on Tariffs

      We want to alert you to a significant development regarding U.S. tariffs.

      The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that certain tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) exceeded presidential authority. As a result, the sweeping reciprocal tariffs and certain tariffs imposed on Canada, China, and Mexico under that authority have been invalidated.

          Please note:

          • The decision does not affect all existing tariffs.
          • Only tariffs implemented under the 1977 IEEPA statute are impacted.
          • Further guidance from CBP is expected.

          We are actively monitoring updates and will communicate additional information as it becomes available.

          If you have immediate questions regarding current entries, duty payments, or potential impacts to your shipments, please contact our Customs Brokerage team.

          We will continue to keep you informed.

          Have questions?

          Contact us at Customs@Richard-Murray.com or call 251-432-5549.

          Key Tariff Updates and Import Compliance Insights

          We wanted to share three key trade updates that have been the focus of recent discussions with many of our clients this week. Please review the following information regarding the new Section 232 tariffs, potential China tariffs, and a Hot Topic tip on managing steel/aluminum tariffs.

          New Section 232 Tariffs on Timber, Lumber, and Derivative Products

          Effective October 14, 2025

          The U.S. government has implemented new Section 232 import duties affecting timber, lumber, and related products. Below is a summary of the new duty rates:

          Softwood Timber and Lumber

          • 10% additional ad valorem rate of duty

          Upholstered Wooden Furniture Products

          • From all countries except the United Kingdom, Japan, and EU member states: 25%
          • From the United Kingdom: 10%
          • From Japan: 15%
          • From the European Union: 15%

          Completed Kitchen Cabinets, Vanities, and Parts

          • From all countries except the United Kingdom, Japan, and EU member states: 25%
          • From the United Kingdom: 10%
          • From Japan: 15%
          • From the European Union: 15%

          Other Kitchen Cabinets/Vanities and Parts (Unfinished or Incomplete)

          • 0% additional ad valorem duty

          Exemptions:
          Products already subject to Section 232 duties on automobiles and automobile parts remain exempt.
          Products subject to IEEPA tariffs also carry certain exemptions, including:

          • Canada and Mexico IEEPA exemptions
          • Reciprocal IEEPA tariff exemptions
          • 40% IEEPA tariff on Brazil
          • IEEPA oil tariffs on India and Russia

          Additionally, Chapter 44 subheadings have been removed from Annex II reciprocal exceptions, meaning they are now subject to reciprocal tariffs.

          Potential 100% Tariff on Imports from China

          The White House has recently threatened a 100% tariff on all imports from China — “over and above any existing tariffs.”

          At this stage, no official action has been taken. We are currently in a wait-and-see period until an Executive Order or official Customs announcement is issued.

          It remains unclear whether any new tariffs would apply based on the entry date or if exceptions will be made for vessels already on the water prior to implementation.

          We will continue to monitor developments closely and provide timely updates as more information becomes available.

          Hot Topic: How to Legally Avoid Paying 50% Tariffs on the Entire Invoice Value of Steel/Aluminum Products

          Question:
          How do we avoid paying Section 232 steel/aluminum tariffs on the entire invoice value if only a portion of the product is made of steel or aluminum?

          Answer:
          Request that your supplier provides a detailed, itemized commercial invoice that clearly breaks down all cost components, including:

          • Labor costs
          • Packaging
          • Logistics/Transportation
          • Steel or aluminum content (in value)
          • Non-steel/aluminum content (in value)

          Only the value of the steel or aluminum is subject to Section 232 steel/aluminum tariffs.

          • Non-steel/aluminum content of the article is subject only to applicable reciprocal tariffs.
          • Labor, packaging, and transportation costs are not subject to any tariffs.

          Pro Tip:
          The more documentation, the better. Ask suppliers for:

          • Affidavits
          • Bills of material
          • Detailed commercial invoices
          • Supporting photos

          Note:
          U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is entitled to request any supporting information needed to verify the breakdown between steel/aluminum and non-steel/aluminum components. Ensure all supporting documents are readily available at the time of entry.

          How to Protect Your Business

          • Always work with a licensed U.S. customs broker.
          • Maintain accurate invoices and supporting documentation.
          • Conduct regular compliance audits.
          • Be cautious of overseas forwarders offering “duty savings” schemes-you will be held liable.

          Richard Murray & Co. is committed to safeguarding your supply chain. For questions about compliance or to review your customs processes, contact us today.

          Trust. Compliance. Protection.

          Protect Your Business: The Risks of Using Origin Freight Forwarders for Customs Clearance

          Richard Murray & Co., a trusted leader in global logistics and customs brokerage for over 100 years, is alerting importers of finished goods to the increasing dangers of entrusting customs and freight management to overseas freight forwarders. The Issue: Under-Invoicing and Customs Fraud Under-invoicing is a fraudulent practice where the declared value of imported goods is deliberately understated to reduce duties and taxes. While some overseas freight forwarders may offer to “save costs” by managing customs clearance at origin, these practices put U.S. importers at significant risk.

          Common Schemes Include:

          • Tampering with invoices to show lower values than what was paid.
          • Double invoicing – one falsified invoice for customs, one real invoice for payment.
          • Failing to declare assists (e.g., tooling, design, engineering support).
          • Manipulating related-party transactions to undervalue goods.

          The Consequences for Importers

          If discovered, under-invoicing exposes importers-not just the overseas forwarder-to severe penalties:

          • Financial penalties up to triple the underpaid duties.
          • Civil and criminal charges, including potential prison time.
          • Seizure of goods, leading to total financial loss.
          • Loss of trusted trader status, increasing future customs scrutiny.
          • Tax evasion liability, with back duties and interest owed.

          How Authorities Detect Fraud

          Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and trade enforcement agencies identify fraud through:

          • Value-gap analysis comparing export vs. import data.
          • Market-based pricing checks against fair market values.
          • Whistleblower programs encouraging tips.
          • Audits and document requests requiring importers to prove “reasonable care.”

          How to Protect Your Business

          • Always work with a licensed U.S. customs broker.
          • Maintain accurate invoices and supporting documentation.
          • Conduct regular compliance audits.
          • Be cautious of overseas forwarders offering “duty savings” schemes-you will be held liable.

          Richard Murray & Co. is committed to safeguarding your supply chain. For questions about compliance or to review your customs processes, contact us today.

          Trust. Compliance. Protection.

          New Trade Deals, Rising Tariffs, and Deadline Extensions: What August Means for Global Shippers

          🚨White House Trade Announcements

          President Trump Announces Major Trade Deal with Japan
          On Tuesday evening, July 22, President Trump revealed a landmark trade agreement between the U.S. and Japan. Under this deal:
          Japan will pay reciprocal tariffs of 15% on certain U.S. imports.
          Japan has also agreed to invest $550 billion into the U.S. economy.
          90% of profits from these investments will remain in the U.S.
          Japan will open key markets to American exports, including cars, trucks, rice, and other agricultural products.

          “This is a historic win for the American economy,” President Trump said during the announcement.
          🌏 Global Trade Updates

          🇮🇩 U.S.-Indonesia Agreement Finalized
          Also on July 22, the Trump Administration confirmed a reciprocal trade deal with Indonesia. Key terms of the agreement include:
          19% reciprocal tariff structure
          Additional details can be found in the official fact sheet

          🇪🇺 EU Negotiations Near Conclusion
          The U.S. and EU are reportedly on the verge of finalizing a deal that would:
          Lower tariffs to 15% on EU imports
          Avert a retaliatory package by the EU, which has prepared measures targeting over $100 billion in U.S. goods if no agreement is reached

          🇮🇳🇨🇦 India & Canada Talks Ongoing
          Negotiations with India and Canada are still in progress. The U.S. is pushing for higher tariffs in both cases, with formal announcements expected in the coming weeks.

          🇧🇷 Brazil: August 1 Deadline Looms
          Tensions rise as Brazil approaches the critical August 1 deadline. Key issues include:
          Outcome of the Bolsonaro trial
          The trajectory of ongoing trade talks
          The possibility of retaliatory tariffs, which could impact both countries’ economies
          🇨🇳 China Deadline Extended to August 12

          Negotiations between the U.S. and China remain fluid. As reported by MSN:
          “Earlier in the month, the two countries reached a temporary agreement designed to give them time to negotiate a longer-term deal. Under that agreement, U.S. tariffs of 145% on Chinese goods will be reinstated on Aug. 12 if a deal isn’t reached. Chinese tariffs on U.S. goods are expected to rise back to 125% as well.”
          A senior Trump official has suggested that this deadline could be pushed back further if negotiations continue to show progress.

          Is Your Supply Chain Ready for August 1? Critical Tariff Updates Inside

          🚨Tariff Headlines You Should Know

          August 1st Tariff Deadline

          President Trump on Wednesday said he would be sending letters to over 150 countries as he plans a barrage of duties to take effect Aug. 1, including levies on pharmaceutical imports and semiconductors. The letters set new baseline tariff levels at 20% to 40% — except for a 50% levy on goods from Brazil. The tariffs on Brazil have raised the stakes for India. Bloomberg reported on a framework deal that could see US tariffs on goods from India drop below 20%. Last week, Trump announced a 35% tariff on Canadian goods and followed up with promises of 30% duties on Mexico and the EU.  It is still unclear whether USMCA-exempt products will be subject to these potential 35% Canadian tariffs.

          The EU has been preparing an extensive list of counter-tariffs that would affect $84 billion of American products should talks fail. Earlier this week, Trump said his team has struck a trade deal with Indonesia that will see goods from the country face a 19% tariff, lowering the rate he had threatened in his letter. Two weeks ago, it was announced that Vietnam imports face a 20% tariff — lower than the 46% Trump threatened in April. With a higher 40% tariff “on any transshipping” — when goods shipped from Vietnam originate elsewhere, like China. As of August 1st a 25% tariff will be reinstated on imports from China, including electric vehicles, steel, and semiconductors.

          As of today, it is still unclear whether there will be any time exemptions, but it is expected that all entries will be subject to new tariffs on Aug 1, regardless of whether it was on the water prior to the announcement.

          🔍What This Means for Your Supply Chain

          Cost Fluctuations: Prepare for potential spikes in customs duties and compliance fees. Short-term rate increases are possible as shippers rush to bring goods in before the August 1 deadline.

          Documentation Readiness: Expect enhanced customs scrutiny—ensure all commercial invoices and origin documentation are in order.

          Supply Chain Realignment: Companies importing materials from newly tariffed nations may accelerate sourcing shifts toward tariff-exempt countries.

          Port Volume Shifts: Certain U.S. ports may see decreased volume on affected trade lanes and increased volume from alternative routes.

          Political Uncertainty: Sudden changes in trade policy can create unpredictability for long-term contracting in container, Ro-Ro, and bulk cargo sectors.
          Talk With Our Global Trade Experts, We’re here to Help!
          Have questions about how tariffs impact your cargo or costs?
          Contact us at Info@Richard-Murray.com or call 251-432-5549.
          Visit www.Richard-Murray.com to learn more about our network of service.

          Thank you for trusting Richard Murray & Co. as your global logistics partner.
          We’ll continue to keep you informed and prepared—no matter how trade winds shift.

          Service Fee Update

          -- IMPORTANT UPDATES --

          SERVICE FEE UPDATE: 3% DUTY OUTLAY

          At Richard Murray & Co., we continuously strive to enhance our services and provide the most efficient, transparent solutions for your logistics and shipping needs. In line with evolving industry practices and to better serve our clients, we are implementing a new policy that will affect all shipments processed through our company.

          Effective April 1st 2025, a 3% Duty Outlay Charge will be applied to all shipments to cover the cost of duties paid on your behalf.

          This charge represents an administrative fee for Richard Murray & Co. to advance the necessary duty payments on your behalf, ensuring your shipments are processed promptly and in compliance with relevant customs regulations. While this adjustment is necessary to maintain our high standard of service, we understand that some customers may prefer to manage these payments independently.

          For those wishing to handle their own duty payments and avoid the outlay charge, we offer the option to set up an Automated Clearing House (ACH) payment system directly with the relevant customs authorities. By setting up ACH payments, you can pay your duties directly and bypass the 3% outlay charge imposed by Richard Murray & Co.

          Steps To Set Up Your ACH Account

          1. Contact your financial institution to inquire about the process of setting up an ACH payment system for customs duty payments. Your bank will be able to guide you through the necessary steps.

          2. Provide your ACH payment details to Richard Murray & Co. once your system is fully set up and operational. This will allow us to coordinate with the appropriate authorities to ensure that duty payments are processed directly from your account.

          3. If you require any assistance with setting up ACH payments or have questions about how this process works, our customer support team is readily available to assist. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us for guidance on this transition.

          Benefits of ACH Payment Set Up

          · Direct Payment Control: With ACH, you will have direct control over your duty payments, providing greater transparency and flexibility.

          · No Outlay Charge: By managing your own payments, you can avoid the 3% outlay charge imposed by Richard Murray & Co.

          · Streamlined Customs Process: ACH payments facilitate quicker customs clearance and reduce the potential for delays in your shipments.

          We are committed to supporting you through this adjustment and ensuring that your shipping experience remains seamless and cost-effective. If you have any further questions or need assistance in setting up your ACH payment system, please feel free to reach out to our team at (251) 432-5549 or Justin@Richard-Murray.com.

          Thank you for your continued trust and partnership with Richard Murray & Co. We greatly appreciate your business and look forward to working with you on this new procedure.

          East Coast Port Strike – January 15, 2024 Strike Deadline

          Stay Informed with Richard Murray and Co.: Your Source for Real-Time Updates on the Potential East Coast Port Strike

          As the January 15, 2025 deadline for the East Coast Port Strike approaches, we know how crucial it is to stay ahead of developments that could impact your business. That’s why our team of logistics experts is committed to bringing you running updates and breaking news as the situation unfolds. From negotiations and potential disruptions to broader industry implications, we’ll keep you informed with real-time insights and practical solutions. Whether you’re a stakeholder or simply want to stay in the loop, our blog will be your go-to resource for the latest news and expert analysis. Stay tuned—your guide to navigating this critical event starts here.

          January 9, 2025

          Just days before an economy-crippling port strike, the ILA union and the U.S. Maritime Alliance have come to an agreement.

          As stated by the NY Times (below), “The agreement will come as a great relief to the businesses that import and export through the East and Gulf Coast ports, which handle some three-fifths of U.S. container traffic.”

          Read more: https://loom.ly/3MTGnLc

          January 8, 2025

          Urgent: Key Impacts and Actions to Take Now

          The potential strike and its implications are certainly a cause for concern for many stakeholders. Here’s a brief summary of the key points and recommended actions:

          1. Strike Anticipation:

          • A second strike by the ILA is expected to occur on January 15, 2025, affecting all U.S. East and Gulf Coast ports. This could result in extended durations compared to the previous strike in October.

          2. Impact on Cargo:

          • No cargo movement will be possible into or out of the affected ports during the strike.
          • Potential for severe backlogs, congestion, and delays, even after the strike ends.

          3. Immediate Actions for Clients:

          • Clear out containers from potentially affected ports before January 15, 2025.
          • Be aware of potential detention and demurrage charges for containers not discharged before the strike.
          • Understand that carriers may not cover or reimburse third-party charges related to the work stoppage.
          • Assume possible fees for empty container returns, depending on each carrier’s policy.

          4. Alternative Options:

          • Clients with cargo ready for transport should contact their logistics advisors promptly to explore alternative routes, given the limited space availability.

          5. Communication and Support:

          • Customers are encouraged to reach out to their customer service representatives for any questions or concerns.

          This proactive approach will help mitigate some of the adverse effects of the anticipated strike. Your logistics team is likely prepared to assist with contingency planning, so engaging with them early is advisable.

          January 6, 2025

          The unresolved issues from 2024 at East and Gulf Coast ports are still very much on the table. A potential repeat of last October’s historic 3-day strike looms, with 47,000 unionized dockworkers preparing for action as soon as next week.

          The 2024 strike was temporarily suspended, but critical discussions around automation were left unresolved. Talks are slated to resume on Tuesday, January 7 with all parties.

          December 27, 2024

          Important Update from Hapag-Lloyd: New Surcharges Due to Potential US East Coast Strike

          In preparation for a possible strike on the US East Coast, Hapag-Lloyd has introduced two new surcharges effective from January 20th. These charges are designed to address potential work disruptions and will only apply if there are actual delays.

          Work Disruption Surcharge (WDS)
          Applies to cargo from origins other than the Far East to the US East & Gulf Coasts.
          850 USD/20′ | 1700 USD/40′

          Work Interruption Destination Surcharge (WID)
          Applies to cargo from the Far East to the US East & Gulf Coasts.
          850 USD/20′ | 1700 USD/40′

          Both surcharges are effective only if disruptions occur and will be waived if there are no delays. Please note: WDS and WID do not apply to cargo gated in, or on the water, prior to January 20th.

          For more details, reach out to your Richard Murray & Co. representative. Stay ahead of potential disruptions and plan accordingly!

          Check out our past Breaking News and Updates from the port strike in October 2024.

          Past Resources: East Coast Port Strike Insights

          As the potential strike at East Coast ports loomed in the past, we provided critical information and strategies to help our clients navigate the situation. Our team outlined the key impacts of the strike on shippers and the broader supply chain, along with actionable strategies to minimize disruptions.

          For those looking for a reference on how to manage similar challenges, feel free to revisit our blog post, Navigating the East Coast Port Strike, where we provided real-time updates and expert insights. Additionally, our Strategies for Shippers document is still available for download, offering a detailed guide to help your team stay informed and prepared in times of uncertainty.

          We remain your trusted resource for logistics support and solutions—whether it’s managing ongoing concerns or preparing for future challenges.

          Richard Murray & Co. Sponsors Mobile Marathon Fun Run, Benefitting Azalea City Montessori

          Richard Murray & Co., a Mobile-based leader in end-to-end Logistics, is proud to announce its sponsorship of the upcoming Mobile Marathon Fun Run, an event that champions the importance of children’s physical fitness, while strengthening partnerships between local schools and the broader community.

          Scheduled to take place on January 12th, the 1.2 mile Fun Run is one of several races that make up the Mobile Marathon. Funds raised from the fun run will benefit Azalea City Montessori School, a nonprofit (501c3) Montessori school serving the Mobile, Alabama area. The event aligns with Richard Murray & Co.’s more than 100-year-old commitment to supporting Mobile and shaping future generations.

          “Richard Murray & Co., has been part of this amazing city since 1923 and we are always looking for ways to stand beside our fellow Mobilians- what better way to do that than by encouraging children to stay active and engaged!” said Lindsey Hilner, President of Richard Muray & Co.  “I currently have 2 children in elementary school at Azalea City Montessori, and I have seen first-hand how prioritizing recess and active play improves the well-being of my two.  Partnering with schools for this fun run allows us to contribute to a cause that inspires physical health, teamwork, and a sense of achievement in our youth.”

          The full, half, and relay marathon will kick off at 7:25 a.m., with the fun run set to start at 12:30 p.m. The event will bring together students, families, educators, and community members for a day of activity, wellness, and connection. All marathon results are forwarded to the Boston Athletic Association to be included in qualifying for the Boston Marathon.

          Richard Murray & Co. believes in the value of partnering with schools. Events like the Mobile Marathon Fun Run provide an opportunity to bring everyone together in support of education and children’s well-being.


          We invite everyone in the community to lace up their running shoes and join us for this exciting event. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun day out with the family, there’s something for everyone at the 2025 Mobile Marathon Fun Run.

          Visit the links below to learn more and register for the Mobile Marathon Fun run:

          Register for the 2025 Mobile Marathon Fun Run, Sponsored By Richard Murray & Co.
          View All 2025 Mobile Marathon Race Info
          About the 2025 Mobile Marathon

          About Richard Murray & Co.
          Richard Murray & Co. has been growing alongside the port of Mobile since 1923.  We have offices overseas to help us arrange your door-to-door global logistics needs.  With an in-house Licensed Customs Broker, and over the road asset-based trucking, we can service every link in your supply chain.  As part of our commitment to giving back, we support initiatives that promote education, health, and community well-being. Please visit our website for more information on our history and service reach at www.Richard-Murray.com. 

          About Azalea City Montessori
          Founded in 2014, ACM is a nonprofit (501c3) Montessori school serving the Mobile, Alabama area and governed by a Board of Directors. Each classroom is staffed with experienced and certified Montessori educators. ACM is the only school in Mobile offering both a primary and elementary Montessori education, reaching students from 3 years old to 6th grade. The mission of ACM is to provide families affordable access to an authentic Montessori education. We seek to fulfill the needs of the whole child by promoting values of peace-making, independence, diversity, and creativity, developing children into compassionate and engaged citizens of the world.