The global supply chain never stands still — and 2025 is proving that again. As new supply chain tariffs take shape and trade relationships continue to evolve, U.S. businesses are facing higher costs, longer transit times, and tighter margins.
For importers, exporters, and manufacturers across Southern California, these shifts have a direct impact on profit and customer satisfaction. Understanding how new tariffs affect freight costs — and how to adapt — is critical to maintaining efficiency and reliability.
Tariff Updates and Their Impact on Shippers
In early 2025, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) launched several tariff reviews on imports from Asia and Europe, targeting goods such as steel, automotive parts, semiconductors, and finished electronics. While the goal is to protect domestic manufacturing, these tariffs also create ripple effects for shipping and logistics companies.
When tariffs rise, importers face a higher total landed cost — including freight, storage, and handling. Many shippers are responding by adjusting sourcing strategies, consolidating shipments, and exploring new routing options. For instance, an importer in Los Angeles might reroute cargo through Oakland or even Houston to balance delivery speed and customs fees.
Exporters, on the other hand, must navigate retaliatory tariffs from trading partners, which can reduce overseas demand and complicate outbound freight planning.
According to FreightWaves, some U.S. manufacturers are shifting production to Mexico and other nearshore countries to minimize long-term exposure to supply chain tariffs — a trend that’s fueling demand for cross-border and intermodal logistics solutions.
How Supply Chain Tariffs Affect California’s Shipping Market
California remains the heart of U.S. trade, with nearly 40% of all imported goods entering through the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. That makes supply chain tariffs especially relevant for businesses operating in the region. Read about how we recommend navigating the post tariff freight landscape here.
When tariffs increase, domestic freight and warehousing activity often rise too. Companies look to store more goods closer to consumers or find regional carriers who can help optimize routes and control costs.
That’s where regional, asset-based carriers like Best Yet Express make a difference. With our dedicated fleet, local warehousing, and full-service logistics team in Los Angeles, we help businesses pivot quickly — whether it’s coordinating drayage, cross-docking containers, or managing short-term storage to reduce demurrage.
Our deep understanding of the Southern California market allows shippers to stay agile, even when global trade shifts unexpectedly.
Planning Ahead in a Changing Trade Environment
Planning Ahead in a Changing Trade EnvironmentTariffs are just one piece of a complex logistics puzzle. Still, they have a powerful domino effect across sourcing, production, and distribution. By working with experienced transportation partners who understand both global trade and local freight movement, businesses can offset risk and maintain stability.
A proactive logistics strategy can help you:
- Reduce detention and storage fees through smarter scheduling
- Improve delivery timelines despite port congestion
- Control costs through efficient LTL and FTL routing
- Gain flexibility with warehousing, transloading, and pick-and-pack services
For companies shipping in and out of California, the right carrier is more than a vendor — they’re a strategic advantage.
To learn more about how we help customers strengthen their supply chains, check out our post on Supply Chain Improvements in the U.S. Market.
Bottom Line:
As supply chain tariffs continue to evolve in 2025, staying informed and adaptable is key. With over 40 years of experience serving Southern California, Best Yet Express provides the transportation and warehousing expertise businesses need to keep freight moving efficiently — no matter what changes global trade may bring. Whether you need freight moved from dock to dock or stored safely in our warehouse, reach out to Best Yet Express today to plan your next shipment. We’ll make sure you’re glad you did.