Dear Clients,
We want to update you regarding the potential U.S. government shutdown and how it may affect your shipments.
Imports Pending Customs Clearance
If a shutdown occurs, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will continue essential national security functions, but many administrative and support operations will be scaled back. This could result in delays for shipments currently under review or pending release. Please note that Phoenix has no control over the timing of Customs exams or releases.
That said, our team will pre-clear as many shipments as possible in advance to help minimize potential delays. Once CBP authorizes release, we will move your cargo forward without delay.
Exports
For U.S. exports, most functions will continue to operate, though exporters may also experience slower processing times if government staffing is reduced. This could include delays in AES filings, license processing, or other government- related reviews.
Agency-Specific Impacts
• CBP: Ports remain open, but refunds, drawback claims, protests, CF 28/29 responses, and ruling requests are expected to be delayed. Importers are recommended to continue meeting filing deadlines.
• FDA/USDA: High-risk inspections and recalls will continue, but with reduced staffing, delays in processing other import transactions are expected.
• EPA and Other PGAs: Reduced capacity is likely to affect reviews and approvals.
• International Trade Commission (ITC): Updates to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule will pause until staffing resumes.
• Bureau of Industry & Security (BIS): Export license processing, classification requests, and advisory opinions may be suspended. Enforcement activities are expected to continue.
• Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Air Traffic Controllers: Both are required to work, but staffing shortages or absenteeism could affect airport operations and air cargo handling.
• CTPAT: No impacts are expected at this time.
Other Government Functions
Additional agencies may also face disruptions during a shutdown. These include the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC), the Department of Transportation (DOT), the Census Bureau, and the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). While essential services such as CBP cargo processing and FAA air traffic control will continue, functions such as tariff exclusion processing, antidumping and countervailing duty investigations, trade monitoring, training programs, and other administrative activities are likely to be suspended.
Our Commitment
Phoenix International will remain proactive and communicative throughout this period. While we cannot influence Customs’ pace, we will:
• Pre-clear shipments whenever possible.
• Monitor cargo status closely.
• Provide timely updates to keep you informed.
We understand how critical reliable supply chain movement is to your business. Thank you for your patience and trust as we work through this together.
Thank you!
