CV International & Capes Shipping Agencies Newsletter | Fall 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,
As we head into fall and the final stretch of 2025, the global trade environment remains complex and challenging. Perhaps more than at any time since the pandemic, companies need trusted partners to help navigate uncertainty and keep supply chains moving. At CV International and Capes Shipping Agencies, we remain steadfast in our commitment to service excellence. Every day, I see our people delivering with professionalism, expertise, and care — enabling us to support our customers and partners through shifting market conditions.
In my summer letter, I shared how we’ve grown our team, expanded our footprint, and invested in new tools — all to serve both long-time and new customers with the right blend of technology and personal expertise. Our focus now is to build on that momentum and scale sustainably, guided by our vision, purpose, and core values.
Those values — Adaptability, Collaboration, Excellence, Integrity, Leadership, Professionalism, and Stewardship — are our north star. They are more than a framework for running a company that can withstand today’s market challenges; they are how we serve our customers, support our partners, empower our colleagues, and contribute to our community. In turbulent markets, they matter more than ever. My commitment to you is that we will continue to uphold these values, whatever challenges the global trade environment may bring.
As always, thank you for the trust you place in us and for your partnership.
Sincerely,
Mike Coleman
President & CEO
CVI and Capes Shipping
After a very brief uptick the first week of September, freight rates out of Asia have settled back to low levels. Carriers had hoped for market improvement this month ahead of the Golden Week holiday in China (October 1-8), when factories and other businesses close for an extended period. No meaningful demand increase materialized, so carriers have once again turned to capacity limitations to help stem the tide of rate reductions. Blank sailings are ramping up for October and will likely continue throughout the fourth quarter as demand remains weak. Freight rates on the Asia-US trades are nearing the low levels last seen right before the Red Sea Crisis began in late 2023.
USTR 301 Chinese-built vessel fees are scheduled to be assessed on vessel operators, where applicable, as of October 14. Most carriers have shifted assets to remove Chinese-built vessels from US services. At this time, carriers do not plan to implement new surcharges directly tied to the new USTR 301 fees, although they reserve the right to revisit the situation. Ultimately, the consensus is that the current market is too weak to support an increase of any type.
The tariff landscape continues to evolve. We have seen sudden shifts in market dynamics caused by various factors over the last several years. As always, we remind shippers to continue to plan ahead and book in advance, even in softer markets. Demand can change very quickly.
Rachel Shames,
Vice President, Pricing & Procurement
Furniture Products Are Affected by a New Section 232 Tariff
A Section 232 Investigation into Timber and Lumber products has resulted in the implementation of additional tariffs on three product categories: softwood lumber, upholstered furniture, and kitchen cabinets and vanities. The investigation by the Department of Commerce (DOC) found that the level of importations of wooden products is weakening the US economy and threatening the domestic wood industry, thereby posing a threat to our national security. The DOC reasoned that wood products are essential inputs supporting the national defense, critical infrastructure, and economic stability of the US.
The additional tariffs are set to take effect on October 14, and the tariffs for upholstered furniture and kitchen cabinets and vanities are scheduled to be further increased on January 1. The tariffs to be imposed are:
The products covered by these tariffs are determined by their associated HTS codes; for instance, not all upholstered furniture products are included in the scope of the investigation. It should be noted that HTS 9403.60.8093 is listed as falling under the additional tariffs for kitchen cabinets and vanities, but the code covers a wide range of wooden furniture. There is an exemption (9903.76.04) provided for goods falling under this HTS code that not meet the description of kitchen cabinets or vanities. As with other Section 232 actions, the list of derivative products subject to the additional tariffs may be expanded. The assumption is that a process for receiving comments from domestic producers on possible additions will be implemented. This has been the case for other products under Section 232 tariffs, including steel and aluminum products, which have experienced significant expansions of derivative products.
The UK, Japan, and the countries of the EU will be given preferential tariffs based on trade agreements negotiated earlier. The UK rate is 10%, while the Japan and EU rates are scheduled for 15%. The White House has left open the possibility of additional trade agreements being negotiated, which could result in further country-specific reductions.
Two other announced Section 232 investigations will result in additional tariffs being levied on the importation of branded pharmaceuticals and heavy trucks.
As for the reciprocal tariffs, the Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the case for invalidating these tariffs in early November. Decisions issued by both the Court of International Trade and the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals have held that these tariffs were implemented unlawfully and should be vacated. Should the tariffs be overturned, the next big question will be how importers may obtain refunds.
Sam McClure,
Director of Compliance & Customs Services
Driving Visibility, Consistency, and Connection Through Systems and Process
With over 15 years of experience in Operations, including the past six with CV International, I was excited to take on a new role this January as Manager, Systems and Processes. The transition has been rewarding, allowing me to have a broader view of how all departments work together and how we can better serve our clients more efficiently through tools and stronger processes.
One of the highlights of this role has been presenting our visibility tool to clients and partners. CVInsight provides real-time visibility into shipments for tracking, viewing documents, managing freight, and high-level analytics. These demonstrations often spark conversations about what visibility means to our clients in today’s constantly changing logistics environment, helping us better understand their needs. I love showing our system to clients, especially those platforms that provide control and peace of mind.
I have also continued working closely with our Control Tower Team in Shenzhen, an important link in our global operations. The partnership with the Control Tower Team has been instrumental in ensuring consistency with our Operations teams in the US, with our overseas agents, and in providing earlier visibility of shipments to clients. Their support has helped our Operations teams to focus on data integrity and expand our additional client services, such as PO Management. This collaboration and adaptability are essential for bringing our teams together for shared goals.
As I’ve navigated various roles throughout my career, I’ve developed a passion for training staff and improving operational processes. Whether it’s a complex consolidation workflow, updating internal practices to align with best standards, or creating client-specific SOPs, these efforts help us – and our partners – deliver consistent, high-quality service.
Lynette Williams,
Manager, Systems & Processes
We’re proud to share that Michael Coleman, President and CEO of CV International and Capes Shipping Agencies, has recently received two significant honors that highlight his leadership and ongoing contributions to Virginia’s trade and business community.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has reappointed Mike to the Commonwealth’s Committee on International Trade, which advises the Virginia Economic Development Partnership Board on matters related to international trade and trade promotion. Mike has long been an advocate for advancing trade and transportation policy in Virginia. In addition to this appointment, he serves on the Board of Commissioners for The Port of Virginia, the Commonwealth’s Board for Branch Pilots, and was appointed to the Virginia Freight Advisory Committee by the Secretary of Transportation.
In addition, Virginia Business magazine has once again named Mike to its Virginia 500 Power List 2025-2026, marking his sixth consecutive year of recognition. This annual list highlights the most influential leaders across the Commonwealth, underscoring Mike’s exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and positive impact on Virginia’s business landscape.
At CVI and Capes, we’re proud to celebrate Mike’s achievements and continued commitment to supporting the businesses and industries that drive economic growth in Virginia and beyond.
CV International and Capes Shipping Agencies recently came together in Norfolk, VA, for our annual management meeting—a time to reflect on the past year, celebrate successes, and chart a course for continued growth. The meeting provided an invaluable opportunity for our leadership and sales teams to connect, exchange ideas, and align on strategies that will keep us at the forefront of global trade.
Throughout the sessions, team members shared insights on operational improvements, new initiatives, and best practices, reinforcing our commitment to collaboration, innovation, and service excellence. The discussions also highlighted the incredible dedication and expertise of both new and seasoned team members, whose contributions are vital to our ongoing success.
A special highlight of the gathering was celebrating Michael King, our recently retired CFO. We honored him with a warm send-off at Makers Craft Brewing, recognizing his many years of leadership, guidance, and contributions to CVI and Capes. We wish MK all the best in his next chapter and are grateful for the strong foundation he helped build for the company.
With our strategy in place and our team energized, CVI and Capes are ready to continue building on momentum, delivering exceptional value to our clients, and upholding our reputation as The Most Trusted Partner in Global Trade.
CV International recently partnered with Willcox Savage to host an engaging webinar for members of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) Brazil Chapter, exploring the fast-changing landscape of U.S.–Brazil trade—particularly in light of new 50% tariffs on Brazilian goods to the U.S. Sam McClure, CVI’s Director of Compliance and Customs Services, led the discussion alongside Leonard Fleisig and Michael Collett, respected maritime and international trade legal experts at Willcox Savage.
The session provided timely insights into looming tariff changes. Topics covered included the role of IEEPA and Section 232 in tariff increases, the potential impact of pending Section 232 cases on Brazilian exports, the August 1 tariff schedule, strategies for duty mitigation, and heightened CBP enforcement and penalties.
Special thanks to Len, Mike, and Sam for sharing their expertise, and to the YPO Brazil community for joining the conversation. We look forward to hosting more insightful and accessible events like these in the future!
CV International was proud to sponsor and participate in last week’s North Carolina World Trade Association World Trade Summit in Greensboro, NC. The event brought together leaders from across the state to explore the future of international trade and highlight North Carolina’s strong commitment to global commerce, along with the many resources available to support businesses.
As part of the “Navigating Global Markets” panel, Sam McClure, Director of Compliance & Customs Services at CVI, shared his expertise on the impact of tariffs, the importance of trade compliance, and practical strategies companies can use to manage risk in today’s uncertain environment.
We thank the NCWTA for hosting such a successful event and for convening a dynamic audience dedicated to strengthening North Carolina’s global trade connections.
In mid-September, the CVI sales team gathered in Charlotte, NC, for an energizing sales conference. The meeting focused on ways to leverage CVI’s reputation for service excellence through expanded outreach, targeted prospecting, and increased sales activities. The team is focused on building strong client relationships, continued diversification into various industry verticals, and uncovering opportunities with new, high-potential shippers. The sales team left Charlotte with renewed energy and focus, inspired to spread the word and demonstrate how CVI is The Most Trusted Partner in Global Trade.
A little rain couldn’t dampen the fun! The CV International and Capes Shipping Agencies teams recently came together with colleagues, customers, family, and friends to cheer on the Monarchs at the 2025 Maritime Appreciation Game at Old Dominion University.
This annual tradition is always a highlight — an opportunity to celebrate our shared maritime community and the important role it plays in our region. Despite the weather, the energy and camaraderie were felt throughout the event, reflecting the strength and pride of the maritime industry.
We’re especially grateful to ODU for continuing to shine a spotlight on the vital contributions of the maritime industry, both in preparing students for careers in the field and in raising awareness with the broader community. Events like this help ensure the next generation of leaders recognizes the significance of this industry to Hampton Roads and beyond. We’re already looking forward to next year’s ODU Maritime Appreciation Game!
A few weeks ago, Capes’ Offshore Wind Operations Agent, Dwayne White, had the incredible opportunity to witness the WTIV (Wind Turbine Installation Vessel) “Charybdis” arrive at Portsmouth Marine Terminal—a landmark moment for American shipbuilding and clean energy. Built in Brownsville, Texas, Charybdis is the first-ever Jones Act-compliant offshore WTIV, representing a major step forward for U.S. maritime innovation.
Dwayne saw firsthand one of the vessels that will play a critical role in the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project, which, upon completion, will generate 2.7 gigawatts of clean energy for the region. His perspective captures what it’s like to stand beside a ship that embodies both maritime excellence and the future of offshore wind.
As port agents for this historic arrival, Capes is proud to support a project that reflects the strength of American industry, collaboration, and forward-thinking innovation. Thanks for giving us a glimpse into this landmark moment, Dwayne!
Capes Shipping Agencies has dropped anchor in Mobile, Alabama, marking another step in our expansion along the U.S. Gulf Coast.
The new office is led by Jennings Lawler, Port Manager – Mobile, whose local expertise and strong industry connections bring immediate value to customers in the region. His leadership reflects Capes’ commitment to delivering personalized, high-touch service across key Gulf markets. Mobile joins our growing Gulf Coast network, further strengthening our ability to provide trusted port coordination, localized insight, and proactive communication throughout every vessel call.
Our success starts with our people, and Jennings is an outstanding addition as we continue to grow across the Gulf.
We’re excited to share that Ben Cherry, Port Manager of the Carolinas at Capes Shipping Agencies, has been appointed to the Wilmington-New Hanover Port, Waterway, and Beach Commission.
This Commission plays a vital role in shaping the future of North Carolina’s coastal region, overseeing initiatives such as port improvements, coastal conservation, and water resource development projects. These efforts not only strengthen the maritime industry but also help protect and enhance the long-term sustainability of our coastal communities.
With years of hands-on experience and a proven track record of leadership in the maritime sector, Ben brings valuable insight and perspective to the Commission. His industry expertise and dedication to serving the maritime community will help advance projects that benefit both the economy and the environment.
We’re proud to see Ben’s contributions recognized and to witness another example of Capes leadership in action. Congratulations, Ben!
This summer, the Capes team has been busy out in the community, connecting with customers, colleagues, and industry partners at two great Propeller Club events.
At the Propeller Club of Baltimore’s 2025 Crab Feast, we had a fantastic time enjoying the feast and festivities while reconnecting with friends and colleagues across the region. The energy and camaraderie of the Baltimore maritime community always make this a special event—thank you to the Propeller Club for another memorable gathering!
We also joined the Propeller Club of Houston’s Annual Texas Clay Shoot at the American Shooting Center. Between the clay shooting, great food and drinks, and plenty of networking, it was a fun day spent supporting maritime scholarships and strengthening industry connections.
Events like these remind us of the value of coming together to celebrate, collaborate, and give back to the maritime community that drives us all forward.
Jackie Craig, CVI, Customs Brokerage Specialist, Atlanta, GA
We’re excited to welcome Jackie to the CVI team! She joins our Atlanta office as a Customs Brokerage Specialist, bringing more than 20 years of industry experience. An Atlanta native, Jackie enjoys spending time with her dog, Buddy, cheering on the Braves, UGA, and Hawks, and supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. She also hopes to travel across Europe one day.
Cody Cook, CVI, Inside Sales & Marketing Assistant, Charlotte, NC
Our recent Marketing Intern, Cody Cook, has joined the CVI team full-time as an Inside Sales & Marketing Assistant. He’ll be supporting the Sales & Marketing team with a variety of business development projects in this new role. A native of Clover, SC, Cody studied History and French as an undergraduate and later spent a year living in Dijon, France. He enjoys playing tennis, speaking French, and traveling throughout Europe.
Tiffany Grano, CVI, Data Visualization Manager, Norfolk, VA
We’re excited to welcome Tiffany to our Norfolk, VA office as Data Visualization Manager! She brings 13 years of experience in data analysis and solutions architecture. Originally from Littleton, CO, Tiffany enjoys traveling, hiking, drawing, and painting. A Denver Broncos fan and SPCA supporter, she hopes to visit Tokyo and travel to Europe someday.
Caleb Zink, CVI, System Support Specialist, Norfolk, VA
Caleb will be serving as a System Support Specialist in our corporate office in Norfolk, VA. Originally from Charleston, SC, he has been working in IT since 2020. Outside of work, he enjoys video games, running, puzzles, and cheering on the Oregon Ducks! It’s on his bucket list to visit all 50 states and to develop his own video game. Welcome to the team, Caleb!
Bryan Hall, Capes Shipping Agencies, Cargo Monitor, Norfolk, VA
Capes is proud to welcome Bryan Hall as a Cargo Monitor in our Norfolk office. A Norfolk native and former Marine, Bryan enjoys reading, cheering for Nebraska Football, and spending time with his family and Irish Wolfhound, Argo. He supports the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) charity and hopes to one day visit Scotland and Ireland.
Erik Hartmann, Capes Shipping Agencies, Vessel Manager, Houston, TX
We’re excited to welcome Erik Hartmann as a Vessel Manager in our Capes Houston, TX office. Erik brings extensive offshore experience, having started his career in 2015. Born in Los Angeles, CA, Erik enjoys paddleboarding, video games, and music festivals, and hopes to one day attend a music cruise. Welcome to Capes, Erik!
Jennings Lawler, Capes Shipping Agencies, Port Manager, Mobile, AL
Capes is growing its Gulf presence with the addition of Jennings Lawler as Port Manager in our Mobile office. A native of Mobile, he brings local roots and years of maritime experience to the role. Outside of work, he enjoys reading, music, and football—especially cheering on The University of Alabama. On his bucket list is traveling abroad one day!
Braedon McCauley, Capes Shipping Agencies, Operations Agent, Norfolk, VA
The Capes Norfolk team is excited to welcome Braedon McCauley as an Operations Agent, bringing strong logistics and operations experience to the role. A Chesapeake native, he enjoys theatre, the outdoors, and sports. He’s also set on tackling a Tough Mudder or Spartan race and traveling to Ireland. Welcome, Braedon!
Trans-Pacific capacity cuts on the rise as carriers look to stem rate slide (JOC)
Trans-Pacific container lines will accelerate blank sailings over the next four weeks in an effort to stabilize spot rates that are continuing to fall amid an unusually soft pre-Golden Week market.
Appeals court strikes down FMC’s detention and demurrage billing rule (JOC)
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) made an “arbitrary and capricious” rule about who should pay detention and demurrage, which effectively blocked ocean carriers from billing their in-house truckers for late charges on containers, an appeals court says.
UN: Trade reset, geopolitics to hurt container trade growth (FreightWaves)
Maritime trade is entering a period of fragile growth marked by geopolitical adjustments and structural pressures, a new analysis finds, with only modest prospects for containerized shipping over the next several years.
Ocean carriers cut capacity to arrest Golden Week rate slide (JOC)
Ocean carriers have accelerated their Golden Week blank sailings for October in a last-ditch attempt to stop the sliding spot market as a broad-based weakness in rates across major trade lanes threatens to drag prices to loss-making levels.
Elimination of US ‘de minimis’ rule hits SMEs hardest (JOC)
Small and medium-sized businesses will shoulder most of the higher costs accrued through the elimination of “de minimis” exemption allowing low-value imports to avoid US duties, hurting air cargo volumes in the upcoming end-of-peak season, according to industry executives.
The freight market is heating up: The future will depend on the ability to maintain balance (AJOT)
The freight transport market has entered a new phase in 2025. So far this year, volumes are rising, but at a slower pace than in 2024 — a trend analysts expect to continue over the next few years.
Government shutdown not affecting border trade flows yet (FreightWaves)
Cargo inspections at international bridges, port operations to continue. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said cargo inspections, port operations, and passenger processing will continue after Congress failed to reach a funding deal at midnight on Tuesday.
If Trump Tariffs Are Ruled Illegal, Refund Chaos Is Expected (Transport Topics)
President Donald Trump has warned of disaster if the Supreme Court overturns his signature tariffs. For starters, it would unleash a bureaucratic nightmare involving reams of refund paper checks.
Current trans-Pacific price plunge lacks the echoes of prior ‘rate wars’ (JOC)
Does the recent rate plunge in the eastbound trans-Pacific — with trade from Asia to the US West Coast down 28% since mid-September after having fallen 66% since June amid a deepening sense of gloom among carriers — qualify as a “rate war?”.
Double Entendre: A Freight Forwarder’s Glossary in Verse
By Jessica Holston,
CVI Import Transportation Coordinator & Poetry Contest Champion (2025)
…
For those not acquainted with the Freight Forwarding grind,
Here’s a list of words to keep in mind:
Bobtail to you, may be a domestic cat breed
To us, it’s how we finish door deliveries with speed.
You may call yourself a deadhead if Grateful Dead gives you the feels,
But to us, it’s a moving cab with no attached back wheels.
Drop & hook may be a move a boxer does in combination,
But to us it’s a pattern of door delivery transportation.
“Ex works” may be an explanation of your alimony income,
But to us it tells the place the freight will come from.
COD can mean that you pay before presentation,
But to us it means a change to final destination.
Detention is a place where bad students can repent
But to us it’s wasted time that a busy truck driver spent.
Your favorite pet detective may have been called “ACE”
But to us, it’s a virtual US Customs place.
if you own horses, your feeder may be a big trough full of hay
But to us it’s the little vessel that gets freight on its way.
You can “Rollover” money to your 401k
But to us, rollover means your freight is NOT on its way.
OT in hours, may pay a higher wage,
But to us it’s for open top, for cargo out of gauge.
Stuffing location may be your Thanksgiving bird
But to us it’s where container loading occurred.
PGA might be where you’d find Tiger Woods
But to us they’re agencies that regulate goods.
You might enjoy reefer if you’re feeling under pressure,
But to us it’s a container to keep your goods fresher.
A broker might keep your portfolio in order
But to us they help get your freight across the border.
Per diem may be lunch money for a business trip
But to us it’s a late fee you pay to the steamship.
Your duties may be housework or yard chores
But to us they’re the result of escalating trade wars.
So before you pursue your freight forwarding ambitions,
Make sure you don’t confuse these shipping definitions.
