CV International & Capes Shipping Agencies Newsletter | Spring 2025
At CVI, we strive to keep our customers updated on current trends & events impacting their supply chain. We send regular Client Alerts but encourage you to also follow us on LinkedIn for all the details in between. On LinkedIn, we provide you with Customs updates, company updates, port closures, rate fluctuations, and much more.
Dear Valued Colleagues, Clients, Partners, and Friends,
Every few months, I take a moment here to reflect not only on the state of global trade, but on what makes CV International and Capes Shipping Agencies the kind of partners our customers rely on—especially in times of change.
I’m proud to share that Virginia Business has named CVI one of the Best Places to Work in 2025. We don’t chase awards, but this recognition means a lot because it reflects the culture we’ve worked hard to build—one where our people feel valued, supported, and empowered to deliver exceptional service.
In a business like ours, that culture is everything. We don’t manufacture a product; we provide expertise. And the value we offer depends entirely on the caliber of our team. We’ve been intentional about hiring and retaining the best, and this award affirms that commitment.
It also comes at a time when the work has never been more demanding. The current administration’s latest round of tariffs has introduced a fresh wave of uncertainty into the global trade landscape. These wide-ranging, often fast-moving changes pose real challenges—not just for importers, but for service providers like us working to keep goods moving.
Our brokerage team is meeting these challenges head-on, navigating shifting rules and incomplete guidance with professionalism and precision. Much of this work happens behind the scenes—gathering detailed data, interpreting component-level classifications, and selecting the right provisional codes—but it’s essential to getting things done right.
We remain committed to helping you weather the storm and plan your next steps with clarity and confidence. As always, thank you for your continued trust and partnership.
Sincerely,
Mike Coleman
President & CEO
CVI and Capes Shipping
The international freight market has been adjusting since the April 2nd US reciprocal tariff announcement and subsequent tariff changes. Initially, bookings from most impacted origins dropped significantly. Since the ninety-day postponement of tariff increases for non-China origins was implemented on April 9th, bookings from those origins have largely resumed. Volumes from China are the weakest and most uncertain now; many shippers with sufficient inventory on hand are holding bookings or arranging to pull back.
Uncertainty across trade lanes is making it very difficult for shippers and carriers to plan for the year ahead. In the absence of stability, shippers cannot accurately forecast volumes, and carriers cannot efficiently plan services and capacity. Shippers moving cargo from non-China origins may plan to pull forward volume for the second half of the year and ship it prior to July, which, as of this writing, is the end of the ninety-day reprieve. This could create an early peak season on certain services. Conversely, volumes from China are expected to remain very low while the current high tariffs are in place on most commodities. Ocean carriers will try to balance supply as well as possible, likely omitting China ports, ramping up blank sailings, and perhaps even combining services while the trade war plays out.
Rachel Shames,
Vice President, Pricing & Procurement
Not Tariffs Again?!
I’d like to write about anything but tariffs, but I don’t see how to avoid it. The first quarter of 2025 has seen unprecedented activity in tariff actions. New tariffs, changes, and revisions have been issued at a dizzying pace leaving brokers and importers scrambling to stay ahead or simply to catch up. For importers, forecasting purchases and pricing requirements has been virtually impossible. As Customs brokers, we are spending an unprecedented amount of time keeping our staff up to date on processes and procedures necessary to file compliant entries. Add to this the need to keep our clients and agents informed so they can try to make the best decisions, and time is becoming a scarce commodity. It does not help that this comes on top of a major expansion of the products which require a Lacey Act filing.
Internal training, an area that has been a focus at CVI, has tilted to filling an immediate need for quickly developing tariff reporting procedures for the entries we file. We still follow a plan for in-depth monthly training sessions to provide our people with the best tools for the work at hand. But we are having to implement impromptu sessions as new tariff actions are announced or revised. With tariff actions being implemented with scant notice, our people have to adapt quickly to new requirements. As with the Lacey Act expansion, the additional tariff actions are creating extra work and more attention to detail when filing an entry. Over the first quarter, some entry lines have gone from requiring one HTS code to two, three, or even four additional provisional HTS codes. It is an effort unlike that of any other time in this industry.
Sam McClure,
Director of Compliance & Customs Services
CVI / Capes Shipping Named One of the 2025 Best Places to Work
I am very proud to share some exciting news — CV International / Capes Shipping Agencies has been named one of the 2025 Best Places to Work in Virginia by Virginia Business magazine!
The evaluation process began in the late summer of 2024. It entailed a review of our workplace policies, practices and demographics as well as conducting an anonymous employee survey. Best Companies Group managed the overall registration and survey process, analyzed all of the data, and used their expertise to determine the final rankings. Ultimately, we were named one of the 2025 winners in the medium employer category (100-249 employees). The full list of winners and company profiles will be published in the April 2025 edition of Virgina Business magazine.
At CVI / Capes Shipping, we strive to deliver personalized international logistics and shipping solutions through a values-based culture of service excellence. Our people play a vital role in fulfilling this purpose, so supporting their well-being and professional success is a top strategic priority. We foster an environment in the workplace that is based upon our Core Values, and we emphasize the growth and development of our team – providing an opportunity for everyone to reach their full potential at work.
Any success we achieve is accomplished through collaborative effort, so I want to thank everyone on our team and our partners for the contributions they bring each and every day that make CVI / Capes Shipping such a great place to work.
I also want to thank Virginia Business for this much-appreciated recognition. It is a meaningful milestone, but the journey is not over, and we will continue to invest in our team and ensure that CVI / Capes Shipping remains one of the best places to work in the future.
Kevin Briggs,
Vice President, Client and Corporate Support
We recently had the honor of attending a memorable gala in Richmond hosted by Virginia Business magazine, recognizing CV International and Capes Shipping Agencies — as one of the 2025 Best Places to Work in Virginia!
This recognition embodies the corporate culture we’ve worked hard to build—one where our people feel supported, valued, and empowered to do their best work. Our business depends on the strength of our team, and we’re proud of all the talented and dedicated professionals who work at CVI and Capes, making our success possible.
We’re proud to share that our CEO, Mike Coleman, has been named one of CoVaBIZ Magazine‘s 150 Most Influential People for 2025!
This honor reflects Mike’s leadership in the region’s maritime community, which continues to shape Coastal Virginia’s economic landscape. From trade and logistics to port operations and community growth, the region depends on strong, forward-thinking leadership — and we’re thrilled to see Mike recognized among those making a lasting impact.
The CV International team extends a heartfelt thank you to all the customers, carriers, vendors, and industry partners we had the pleasure of connecting with at TPM25. Events like these are a testament to the strength of our industry and the collaborative efforts that keep supply chains moving efficiently. Mike Coleman, President and CEO, Bill Smith, VP of Business Development and Sales, Kevin Briggs, VP Client and Corporate Support, Rachel Shames, VP Pricing and Procurement, and Cary Hagen, VP Strategic Partnerships, were on the ground in Long Beach to represent CV International at this premier industry event – often referred to as “Davos on the Docks”.
At CVI, we deeply value the relationships we’ve built and continue to nurture across the logistics landscape. It takes a network of dedicated professionals to navigate the complexities of global trade, and TPM25 once again proved to be an invaluable opportunity to share insights, discuss challenges, and explore innovative solutions.
In February, CV International and Capes Shipping Agencies had the opportunity to attend the VMA Maritime Day & Legislative Session in Richmond, VA, hosted by the Virginia Maritime Association. CEO Michael Coleman and Capes’ Rachel Upshaw joined VMA President Lang Williams, along with other industry leaders, in connecting with key state officials, including Governor Glenn Youngkin, Lieutenant Governor Winsome Sears, House Minority Leader Todd Gilbert, and Attorney General Jason Miyares.
The Port of Virginia is a powerhouse in the maritime industry, ranking as the 2nd largest port on the East Coast by tonnage and the 3rd largest in container volume. As a crucial part of the global supply chain, VMA plays an integral role in supporting the region’s economic success. VMA oversees more than 450 companies that employ over 70,000 Virginians, contributing over $1.3 billion in cargo flow through Virginia’s ports annually.
CV International is proud to support VMA’s efforts to drive growth and innovation within the maritime industry and looks forward to continuing our collaboration in the future.
CV International was proud to sponsor the third event in the Hampton Roads Global Commerce Council Supply Chain Summit Series, which focused on the state of our local trucking industry. Truckers today are the modern-day cowboys, navigating highways instead of dusty trails, ensuring that everything we own, touch, and consume arrives where and when it’s needed.
It’s a privilege to be part of a maritime community that not only values the trucking industry but also deeply respects the hardworking individuals behind it. Without truckers, everything comes to a halt, and we recognize their vital role in keeping the supply chain moving.
On January 23, CV International hosted a highly informative webinar focused on the latest updates to the Lacey Act, effective December 1, 2024. These changes expand the requirements to cover a broad range of products containing wood or other plant-derived materials, impacting many importers who may not have previously dealt with the Lacey Act.
During the session, our expert compliance team provided valuable insights on:
If you missed the session, don’t worry — you can still stay informed! Visit our website’s page on Lacey Act Guidance to access the presentation slides and a helpful reference sheet. And stay tuned for future opportunities to stay up to date on key regulatory updates!
CV International team members Sarah Certo and Tom Guthrie recently attended the North Carolina District Export Council (NCDEC) Export University in Wilmington, NC. During the event, Sarah, one of our expert Export Coordinators, shared valuable insights on the importance of selecting the correct Incoterms when starting an export business.
In today’s dynamic global trade landscape, understanding Incoterms is essential for managing risks and ensuring smooth international transactions. Sarah also highlighted the critical role of a freight forwarder in keeping exporters informed and guiding them through the complexities of international shipping.
At CV International, we’re committed to supporting your business every step of the way—whether it’s navigating compliance, optimizing logistics, or answering any export-related questions.
With the ongoing uncertainty and evolving landscape of tariffs, staying informed is more important than ever. CV International is grateful for the opportunities to partner with the Virginia Maritime Association, Old Dominion University, and valued customers like American Truetzschler to provide forums for discussing this critical and timely topic.
A special thank you to CVI’s Director of Customs & Compliance, Sam McClure, for delivering insightful presentations on tariffs and helping industry professionals navigate these complexities with expert knowledge. These discussions brought industry professionals together to examine the potential ramifications for businesses and the broader U.S. economy.
We look forward to continuing these essential conversations and supporting our partners through the challenges and changes still to come.
Future-ready logistics harnessing AI, strategies for supply chain resiliency, and global sourcing shifts in a tariff-ridden environment were all on the agenda at the Supply Chain Management Conference last month in Grand Rapids, MI.
This well-attended event hosted by The Right Place, Inc. brought together shippers, transportation providers, technology companies, and academics with a common purpose to move supply chains forward in today’s ever-changing landscape.
CV International is proud to serve many customers in the Midwest, where Gary Bost, our Regional Sales Manager, and Bill Smith, our VP of Business Development and Sales, keep their fingers on the pulse of international logistics.
CV International recently celebrated trusted partnerships across two continents — all in one day!
In Virginia Beach, a group from our Norfolk team came together to spend time with our visiting colleagues from Orient Star Transportation — our long-time, Asia-based agent and an essential part of our global forwarding network.
Meanwhile, farther south, Mike Coleman, CVI’s President & CEO, and his father, Wayne, our Founder & Chairman, were in Buenos Aires, celebrating our newly-established partnership with a valued customer — one that CVI is proud to support as they establish a presence in the US market.
These partnerships reflect the trust, collaboration, and global reach that define how we do business — with people we know, respect, and enjoy working with.
Recently, Vinny Di Costanzo and Jessica Holston had the opportunity to host another valued customer for a guided tour of The Port of Virginia, offering a firsthand look at the scale and complexity of global logistics in action. We’re grateful to the incredible team at the Port for their partnership and support in making these tours possible.
Experiences like these highlight our commitment to transparency, efficiency, and building lasting partnerships. At CV International, we’re proud to go beyond the role of a traditional Customs Broker. We act as an extension of our clients’ teams—often serving as their U.S. logistics division—taking on critical responsibilities that keep their supply chains moving smoothly and reliably.
At CV International, we pride ourselves on delivering personalized international logistics and shipping solutions with a strong commitment to service excellence. But that’s not all—we also happen to be AMAZING bakers!
A huge thank you to Crystal Hundley for organizing the Norfolk Bake-Off, a fun and delicious event that showcased our team’s hidden talents. Our team’s skills extend far beyond logistics!
The teams at Capes Shipping Agencies and CV International recently celebrated the first anniversary of Capes’ New Orleans office! Over the past year, we’ve proudly delivered top-tier port agency services across the Mississippi River, the U.S. Gulf Coast, and beyond.
This milestone marks a year of success and sets the stage for an exciting new chapter in our growth. We remain committed to being The Most Trusted Partner in Global Trade and look forward to continuing to provide our clients with exceptional service and expertise in the years ahead.
Rachel Upshaw had the privilege of speaking at Old Dominion University’s 3rd Annual Maritime Conference, which focused on Offshore Wind. She participated in a panel titled Agile Evolution: Embracing Maritime’s Adjacent Opportunity.
The event provided valuable insights into regional project progress, technology and innovation, R&D, and internship/career opportunities. It was a great experience connecting with college and university students, faculty, staff, industry professionals, and government representatives and an excellent opportunity for all involved to learn and engage in the exciting future of offshore wind.
CV International and Capes Shipping Agencies teams had the pleasure of attending The Propeller Club, Port of Norfolk ODU Industry Night—a fantastic event that brought together current and future maritime and supply chain professionals.
Many of our team members are proud to be actively involved with both The Propeller Club, Port of Norfolk, and Old Dominion University’s Maritime, Ports, and Logistics Institute. It’s always inspiring to see the industry thrive, and we’re excited to continue supporting the growth and development of the maritime sector.
Capes Shipping Agencies was proud to attend the 2nd Annual Oyster Roast hosted by The Propeller Club, Port of Wilmington, NC. It is a fantastic event that brings together members of the local maritime community. Our Port Manager, Ben Cherry, serves on the board of the Wilmington chapter, which plays a vital role in promoting and supporting the region’s maritime industry. It was a great evening of networking and celebrating the people and partnerships that keep our port city moving.
We’re proud to recognize Rachel Upshaw for completing the Virginia Maritime Association’s Maritime Leadership Certificate Program—a year-long experience designed to cultivate leadership while exploring the full scope of the maritime industry.
The program took Rachel and her cohort across Virginia and beyond, offering firsthand exposure to everything from tugboats and harbor pilots to warehousing, logistics, and workforce development. One highlight for Rachel—a self-declared tugboat enthusiast—was a ride aboard the tug Rosemary McAllister.
Through exercises like balancing the state budget in a day and engaging with industry leaders, Rachel not only expanded her knowledge but also built meaningful relationships with fellow maritime professionals. The program fosters both insight and connection, developing the values and leadership skills that will shape the next generation of maritime leaders. A big congratulations to Rachel on this well-earned achievement!
New US tariffs forcing shippers to recalculate supply chains on the fly (JOC)
The broad and varied tariffs announced this week by the Trump administration that affect US imports from virtually every country around the globe have sent shippers scrambling, forcing a rethink of supply chain strategy within a market so cloaked in uncertainty that one stakeholder likened it to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
April blank sailings ramp up amid push to finalize long-term contracts (JOC)
Ocean carriers plan to blank more sailings through much of April as freight rates hit new lows for 2025 and more ships are expected to hit the water in the coming months.
Trump tariff fears plague ocean container rates (Freightwaves)
Trans-Pacific ocean container rates have eased port-Lunar New Year, despite volumes estimated to be significantly stronger than a year ago.
Likelihood of IMO fuel standard set to reshape container shipping market (JOC)
What happens at the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO’s) Marine and Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) meeting in early April will have profound implications for shippers, dwarfing the impact, for example, of proposed fines on Chinese ships calling at US ports.
Huge rise in cargo theft prompts call for federal help (The Loadstar)
A huge rise in cargo theft in the US has left stakeholders pushing for “federal involvement” and urging shippers to get insurance.
Retailers submit comments in opposition to USTR shipping remedies proposal (AJOT)
The National Retail Federation and the Retail Industry Leaders Association submitted joint comments today regarding proposed action in the Section 301 investigation of China’s targeting of the maritime, logistics and shipbuilding sectors for dominance.
Joseph Witt, Capes Shipping Agencies, Operations Agent, Baltimore, MD
Joseph was born in Westminster, MD. When not working, he enjoys golfing, football, and flying. In addition, Joseph has a favorite charity called Freedom Ride Rescue, a 501(c)(3) organization in NC that rescues dogs from shelters and risky situations and provides them with care, helping them find new homes in a loved family. He is also a fan of the Ravens and the Orioles.
Johnny Garcia, CVI, Regional Sales Manager, Savannah, GA
Johnny was born in Taft, TX. Outside of work, he enjoys gardening, weightlifting, and cooking. His favorite charities are St. Jude, United Way, and the YMCA. His favorite sports team is the Dallas Cowboys. One day, Johnny hopes to build a cabin on a lake in the mountains.
Jordan Ryan, Capes Shipping Agencies, Operations Agent, Savannah, GA
Jordan was born in Savannah, GA. He enjoys boating, fishing, football, and UFC. His favorite sports team is the Georgia Bulldogs. One day, he dreams of exploring the enchanting beauty of Ireland.
Veronica Riveron, Capes Shipping Agencies, Accounting Clerk, Norfolk, VA
Veronica was born in Miami, FL. She has two cats named Calcifer and Lune. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, gaming, baking, and doing makeup. Her favorite charity is HicksStrong Inc., and her favorite sports team is the Miami Dolphins. Additionally, one of the items on her bucket list is to see all seven wonders of the world.
Monroe Foreman, Capes Shipping Agencies, Operations Agent, Norfolk, VA
Monroe was born in Norfolk, VA, and has a Boykin Spaniel named Dixie. Outside of work, he enjoys watching sports and participating in outdoor activities. His favorite charity is the American Red Cross, and he is a fan of the Washington Commanders and the St. Louis Cardinals. One of his goals is to visit every MLB ballpark.
Rodell Duff, Capes Shipping Agencies, Manager, Houston, TX
Rodell was born in Trinidad and Tobago. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his 6-year-old son, Ryder. He watches and coaches his sports teams. His favorite professional sports teams are the Houston Astros, Houston Texans, and Texas Longhorns. One of his goals is to perform the biggest song in the world on the main stage at the Houston Rodeo.