CV International & Capes Shipping Agencies Newsletter | Spring 2026
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,
Taking stock of where we are at this point in the year, not much has changed on the trade front. Geopolitical uncertainty and elevated costs persist, but tariffs—both navigating the changing landscape and managing the refund process now underway—have become the dominant challenge for importers.
Our customs brokerage team has been working through these complexities in real time, interpreting new regulations, managing compliance requirements, and helping customers stay ahead of what’s next. We’ve also stepped up our outreach—publishing client alerts, hosting webinars, and creating resources to help cut through the noise when things are changing fast.
I encourage you to make use of what we’re putting out there. And if something isn’t clear, or if you just want to talk through an approach, reach out. We’re here for that.
In uncertain markets, the value of a partner isn’t just in executing transactions—it’s in helping you think through decisions and move forward with confidence. That’s the work we’re committed to, and we appreciate the trust you place in us to do it.
Thank you for your continued partnership.
Sincerely,
Mike Coleman
Chief Executive Officer
CVI and Capes Shipping
Global Logistics Update
Freight rates and fuel surcharges across all transport modes and trade lanes remain elevated. Capacity on import trade lanes, including Transpacific Eastbound and Transatlantic Westbound, has been tight leading up to the May Labor Day holidays; rollover pools have built up at some China ports.
The ocean contracting season moved slowly this year while geopolitical uncertainties continued. Most deals have been finalized, while some remain pending. Bunker surcharge structure has been a major issue this year as all sides tried to account for an unstable fuel environment. Overall, contract rates from Asia to US were finalized at levels higher than anticipated at the start of contracting season, but lower than current spot rates.
Beyond freight rates and high fuel charges, the Strait of Hormuz crisis continues to force logistics adjustments. Hapag-Lloyd and MSC announced the reinstatement of service to the Upper Persian Gulf region using a combination of feeder services and over-the-road transport to avoid passage through the Strait.
As always, early booking on all modes is highly recommended.
Rachel Shames,
Vice President, Pricing & Procurement
Tariff Refund Process Underway as CBP Launches CAPE Module
As spring arrives, bringing warmer weather and renewed activity, attention has also turned to the significant issue of tariff refunds. In February 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA) does not grant authority to impose tariffs. As a result, all tariffs collected under this statute must be refunded.
The case was subsequently remanded to the Court of International Trade (CIT), which was tasked with overseeing the refund process for U.S. importers. The CIT directed U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to develop a plan to distribute approximately $166 billion in refunds within two weeks. CBP responded that 45 days would be required to design and implement an appropriate system.
CBP’s new refund module within the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), known as CAPE, went live on April 20, 2026, launching Phase 1 of the refund process. While the process appears straightforward—download a CSV template from the CAPE module, input applicable entry numbers associated with IEEPA tariffs, upload the file, and await refunds within an estimated 60 to 90 days—there are important technical and procedural complexities to consider.
To begin, importers must have an active ACE Portal account. Establishing an account can take several weeks if all required information is not readily available. Once access is secured, users must confirm that their importer account is properly configured and that ACH Refund Authorization is completed with valid banking details.
Next, importers should generate the ES-003 Entry Summary Lines Detail report for the period during which IEEPA tariffs were collected. After downloading the report, it must be sorted by Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) number to identify relevant tariff lines and corresponding liquidation dates. Careful data organization at this stage is critical for accurate submission.
During Phase 1, eligible entries include those that are either unliquidated or liquidated within 80 days of the submission date. However, several categories of entries are excluded from Phase 1 and will be addressed in future phases. These include:
Although the refund process is now underway, navigating its requirements demands careful preparation and attention to detail. Importers are encouraged to establish their ACE Portal access promptly and begin preparing submissions to take full advantage of the refund opportunity.
John Boomhover,
Director of Compliance & Customs Services
Transforming Supply Chains Through Intelligent Purchase Order (PO) Management
In today’s global market, supply chains are under constant pressure to operate with greater speed, accuracy, and cost efficiency. Yet many organizations continue to rely on fragmented systems, manual processes, and inconsistent communication, all of which cause delays, limit visibility, and constrain their ability to scale. In this increasingly complex environment, Purchase Order (PO) Management has emerged as a critical discipline for companies seeking to transform their logistics operations from a reactive process into a proactive, strategic advantage.
Through our comprehensive solution, CV International (CVI) is helping businesses achieve that transformation by bringing structure, visibility, and intelligence to the purchase order lifecycle.
A defining advantage of PO management is the ability to deliver end-to-end visibility. For companies sourcing from multiple suppliers across diverse geographic regions, tracking orders can quickly become a fragmented and difficult process. By centralizing data and workflows, CV International offers a thorough view of the purchase orders, production timelines, and shipment milestones. This level of transparency allows businesses to monitor supplier performance, track cargo readiness, identify potential delays early, and adjust logistics strategies in real-time.
Improving supplier coordination is another critical benefit. Procurement often involves partners operating across different time zones and languages. Without a centralized communication framework, misaligned expectations can lead to incomplete shipments, documentation errors, and missed deadlines. CV International acts as a central point of coordination, ensuring that suppliers adhere to shipping instructions, documentation requirements, and delivery schedules. This structured approach reduces common inefficiencies and ensures that goods move smoothly from origin to destination.
Cost optimization is also significantly enhanced through effective PO management. In the absence of coordination, shipments from multiple suppliers are frequently transported separately, leading to underutilized containers and elevated freight costs. By synchronizing production schedules and consolidating shipments, CV International enables businesses to maximize container utilization and reduce the number of LCL shipments. This not only lowers transportation and handling costs but also improves overall operational efficiency, particularly for high-volume importers managing large quantities of purchase orders.
Technology plays a central role in enabling these capabilities. CV International’s platform replaces outdated spreadsheets and manual workflows with a centralized, digital solution that integrates visibility, collaboration, and analytics. Real-time dashboards provide immediate access to critical information, while milestone tracking ensures that every stage of the purchase order lifecycle is monitored. The platform is designed for rapid deployment and ease of use, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional legacy systems while supporting scalability for growing businesses.
As global supply chains become increasingly complex, purchase order management has evolved beyond a back-office function into a strategic business necessity. By partnering with CV International, companies gain the tools and expertise to have a competitive edge in global trade.
Lisa Cook,
Vice President of Operations
We’re excited to announce key executive leadership appointments at CV International (CVI) and Capes Shipping Agencies.
Cary Hagen steps into the newly established role of Chief Commercial Officer at CVI. Cary joined CVI’s leadership team as Vice President, Strategic Partnerships in 2024, bringing with him more than 30 years of experience in global logistics, port operations, and supply chain management. His priorities as CCO will center on expanding the company’s reach in key growth markets — ensuring that the company’s full suite of freight forwarding, customs brokerage, compliance, and supply chain visibility services is accessible and seamlessly integrated for every client CVI serves.
Bobby Scott has been appointed President of Capes Shipping Agencies, bringing deep industry roots and a clear focus on delivering the local expertise that vessel and cargo interests depend on in ports along the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts. Bobby joined Capes’ leadership team in 2020 as Director, Business Development and has over 27 years of experience in vessel agency and global shipping.
We are also pleased to announce Peter Hansen’s promotion to Vice President of Operations at Capes, as well as the appointment of Kevin Briggs, SHRM-SCP to Vice President of Technology across both companies.
As our CEO Michael Coleman shared, “Cary’s strategic depth in global logistics and Bobby’s expertise in vessel agency create a formidable leadership team — and we’re incredibly excited about what they will accomplish. These appointments position us to continue to deliver on our vision of being the most trusted partner in global trade for our clients.”
As global markets grow more complex, we remain focused on what has always guided us — being the most trusted partner in global trade for every client we serve.
To read the full announcement on our website, click here.
In February, the CVI team welcomed Angie Piscitelli as Charlotte Branch Manager, further strengthening its leadership presence in a key regional market and logistics hub.
Angie brings decades of experience in the NVOCC and international freight forwarding industry, with a strong background spanning both operations and business development. In her new role, she will lead the Charlotte team with a focus on operational excellence and delivering high-quality service to customers.
The company also recognizes the contributions of Sonya Nelson-Chastain, who recently retired after 20 years with CVI. Her dedication and impact have played a meaningful role in the success of the Charlotte branch.
With Angie’s leadership and industry expertise, the CVI Charlotte branch is well-positioned to continue delivering reliable, customer-focused solutions to our valued clients and partners worldwide.
CVI recently hosted a Lunch & Learn session, “Tariffs, Trade & What Comes Next,” bringing together members of the greater Charlotte region’s German business community for an in-depth discussion on the evolving customs and global trade landscape.
The session provided timely guidance on key customs considerations, with particular focus on the implications of the Supreme Court ruling on IEEPA tariffs. The discussion highlighted the growing importance of maintaining a well-informed and adaptable trade strategy amid ongoing regulatory changes.
CVI extends its appreciation to Groninger USA in Charlotte for hosting the event, as well as to all attendees for their engagement and insights. The gathering underscored the continued strength of the German American business community across the Carolinas. As always, our Compliance Team remains available to continue the conversation and is happy to assist with any customs-related needs.
In February, CVI’s Jeff Bennett, Regional Sales Manager, had the opportunity to serve as moderator for the HRGCC Shippers Panel in Norfolk, VA.
The Shippers Panel brought together leading manufacturers, producers, and logistics professionals from across Hampton Roads to explore how they are navigating the complexities of trade, supply chains, and logistics in 2026. Panelists also shared their perspectives on market opportunities and risks, as well as how they look to the Hampton Roads and greater Virginia business community to support their continued growth.
Jeff guided the discussion with steady insight and perspective, drawing from decades of experience in the maritime and logistics industry. CVI is proud to have dedicated team members like Jeff contributing to conversations like these. A special thank you to the Hampton Roads Global Commerce Council (HRGCC) for hosting such an insightful event.
As anyone involved in global trade over the past year will tell you, the sheer volume of shifts in tariff-related trade policy has made an already complex landscape even more challenging to navigate. Navigating that complexity starts with customs brokers.
Our Customs Brokerage team at CV International has met this evolving landscape with dedication and excellence—staying ahead of new tariffs, compliance updates, and regulatory changes. Their deep expertise, proactive approach, and attention to detail help keep our clients compliant and informed, even as requirements shift in real time.
A huge thank you to our customs brokers for the professionalism and passion you bring every day. Your work is a big part of what makes us The Most Trusted Partner in Global Trade.
Interested in being part of a team like this? As we continue to grow, we’re looking for customs brokers—visit our website to learn more.
CVI was proud to take part in this year’s State of the Port, hosted by our friends at the Hampton Roads Global Commerce Council and The Port of Virginia.
As a Norfolk-based company and platinum sponsor, CV International—alongside our Capes Shipping Agencies team—enjoyed connecting with customers and industry partners across two days of insightful discussions and networking.
The event highlighted how “America’s Most Modern Gateway” continues to deliver speed, certainty, and scale, even in a volatile 2025. Strong performance metrics reinforced that message, with the port moving 3.4 million TEUs (up 20%) and achieving more than 33 crane moves per hour.
We’re proud to be part of such a dynamic port community and appreciate the opportunity to engage in conversations shaping the future of global trade!
At CVI and Capes, we’re proud to be out in the community—helping educate and inspire the next generation of supply chain and maritime professionals.
At Virginia Beach City Public Schools’ recent XPEDITION: Port of Call Career Immersion Experience, Vinny Di Costanzo and Casey Murphy from CVI, along with Rachel Upshaw from Capes, helped introduce nearly 4,800 local 7th graders to the maritime supply chain. Through an interactive “supply chain district,” students explored the real-world journey of cargo—from ports and trucking to customs, warehouses, and beyond.
In a separate event, our Export Supervisor, Sarah Certo, returned to her alma mater, UNC Wilmington, as a guest speaker during Cameron School of Business Week—sharing the fundamentals of export logistics and real-world insights with business students preparing to enter the field.
Whether sparking early curiosity or helping students take the next step toward their careers, we’re proud to support and inspire the future of global trade.
TPM 2026 in Long Beach once again served as a key gathering point for the global supply chain community, bringing together industry leaders to exchange insights on the trends shaping trade and the broader global economy.
Members of the CV International leadership team—including Mike Coleman (President & CEO), Cary Hagen (Chief Commercial Officer), Rachel Shames (VP, Pricing & Procurement), and Bill Smith (VP, Business Development & Sales)—were on the ground and enjoyed connecting with customers, partners, and industry peers.
Throughout the conference, conversations consistently reflected an industry navigating continued uncertainty—driven by geopolitical developments, evolving trade policy, and ongoing capacity and reliability challenges. Even amid this complexity, one message stood out clearly: agility, strong relationships, and collaboration remain essential to moving forward.
TPM continues to be a valuable forum for exchanging ideas, strengthening connections, and gaining perspective across the global trade community.
In late April, we were saddened to learn of the passing of Fred Piercy, a longtime furniture and transportation professional and a valued member of the CV International family.
Fred dedicated 43 years to Bernhardt Furniture as Director of Transportation before retiring, and later continued to share his expertise in Business Development with CV International for more than 20 years. Across decades of service, he made a lasting impact on North Carolina’s furniture and trucking logistics industries.
A highly respected figure in the field, Fred was a familiar presence at the High Point Furniture Market each year, where he built enduring relationships and contributed to the strength of our industry. In recognition of his exceptional dedication and influence, he was honored in 2015 with the Bill H. Teague Lifetime Achievement Award from the North Carolina League of Transportation and Logistics (NCLTL) as well as the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA)’s Specialized Furniture Carriers Lifetime Achievement Award (2021).
A U.S. Army veteran, Fred was also known as a civic leader, trusted mentor, and a true Southern gentleman. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Betty, and to his family and friends. He will be greatly missed, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Over the past few months, CVI has hosted a series of webinars covering timely customs compliance and global trade topics impacting importers as regulatory requirements and tariffs continue to evolve.
The sessions addressed a range of key developments, including CBP’s transition to electronic ACH refunds, emerging guidance around potential IEEPA duty refunds and associated ACE reporting, and updates to Section 232 tariffs impacting products containing steel, aluminum, and copper. Across each topic, the focus remained on helping importers understand what is changing, what to watch for, and how to prepare operationally in a shifting trade environment.
Through this webinar series, CVI compliance experts shared practical insights and actionable guidance designed to help importers stay informed, reduce risk, and navigate ongoing changes with confidence. We look forward to continuing the series with our upcoming session on May 13, “Preparing for CPSC e-Filing,” as well as future discussions on other important topics shaping global trade.
Interested in attending upcoming webinars? Please sign up to receive our distribution list for event invites as well as regular global logistics and customs compliance updates.
We were saddened to learn of the passing of Gerald (Jerry) Lee Parks, who passed away on March 15, 2026, at the age of 92.
Jerry dedicated more than 50 years to the maritime industry, including his ownership of Capes Shipping Agencies, which later became part of CV International. He was a well-respected and familiar presence in the Virginia maritime community, known for his integrity, professionalism, and the strong relationships he built throughout his career.
He leaves behind a lasting legacy within the industry and the many people who had the opportunity to work with him over the years. Our deepest sympathies go out to his wife, Eula Mae, his daughter Brenda, and his entire family.
Capes was proud to sponsor and attend the ODU Industry Night organized by The Propeller Club, Port of Norfolk—an event that connects the maritime industry with the academic community in support of future professionals.
The evening was a strong success, raising $5,000 for Old Dominion University scholarship funds and helping expand educational opportunities for students pursuing maritime careers.
The event highlighted the value of bringing industry and education together at ODU. Capes’ own Rachel Upshaw, who serves on the Propeller Club board, played an active role in supporting the evening and strengthening those important connections. A special thank you to the Capes team members who attended and showed their support for the future of the maritime community!
Capes was proud to sponsor and attend the Norfolk Propeller Club’s Spring Oyster Roast, a signature event that continues to bring together the regional maritime community. The evening provided a great opportunity for Capes to connect with customers, terminal operators, and industry partners in a relaxed setting, while engaging in meaningful conversations across the maritime community.
These oyster roasts also underscored the important role The Propeller Club, Port of Norfolk plays in fostering industry connection, collaboration, and engagement throughout the surrounding maritime community. Capes appreciates the opportunity to take part in events like this that bring the industry together, and we thank the Propeller Club for hosting another well-attended and successful gathering. We’re already looking forward to the next oyster roast!
Anthony Evans, CVI, Regional Sales Manager, Atlanta, GA
We’re excited to welcome Anthony Evans to the CVI Sales Team as a Regional Sales Manager, Southeast. Based in the Atlanta region, he brings over a decade of industry experience in sales, along with a background as a former professional basketball player, having played with the Dallas Mavericks and Sacramento Kings. A proud University of Georgia alum, Anthony remains active in youth sports and nonprofit work through the Score For Kids Foundation, where he serves as Vice President. Welcome to the team, Anthony!
Angie Piscitelli, CVI, Branch Manager, Charlotte, NC
CVI is proud to welcome Angie Piscitelli as Branch Manager of our Charlotte office. She brings over two decades of experience in international freight forwarding, with a background spanning both operations and business development. A native of Clover, SC, Angie enjoys spending time with her family, golfing, and vacationing at the beach. It’s on her bucket list to take a Viking cruise through Europe. Welcome, Angie!
Howie Strean, Capes, Operations Agent, Savannah, GA
Capes is pleased to welcome Howie Strean to the Savannah team as an Operations Agent. A Tampa, FL native, Howie brings over a decade of experience in the maritime industry, having served as a vessel agent/coordinator. He enjoys watching baseball in his free time, especially the L.A. Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, and Tampa Bay Rays, and hopes to one day visit all MLB stadiums. Please join us in welcoming Howie!
Trump administration launches $166B CAPE system for tariff refunds (FreightWaves)
More than 56,000 importers have registered for refunds, with over 330,000 potential businesses eligible for billions in tariff repayment. U.S. CBP activated the first phase of the Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) tool on Monday. Read more...
Trump ties tariff relief to US steel shift (FreightWaves)
The Trump administration is offering Canadian and Mexican steel and aluminum producers relief from steep 50% tariffs—if they commit to shifting production capacity into the U.S., a move that is already drawing backlash across North America and reshaping cross-border supply chains. Read more…
Is US trade at risk from Strait of Hormuz disruption? (AJOT)
While overall US exposure to shipments transiting the Strait of Hormuz — which has been essentially closed due to the US-Iran conflict — is relatively limited, key industries such as energy, fertilizers and aluminum face signficantly higher risk due to. Read more...
Zim shareholders overwhelmingly approve takeover by Hapag-Lloyd (JOC)
Hapag-Lloyd is on course to complete its $4.2 billion takeover of Zim Integrated Shipping Services by the end of this year after shareholders of the Israel-headquartered carrier voted overwhelmingly to approve the deal Thursday. Read more…
Cosco doubles down on emerging trades as Q1 net profit plunges 49% (JOC)
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Iran war repercussions impacting shipping, oil (Virginia Business)
After a year of shadowboxing unpredictable tariff policies, global shipping companies in 2026 are contending with full-tilt combat in a narrow-but-vital Persian Gulf passage. Read more…
War-driven energy shock makes case for more alternative fuels (JOC)
Bunker fuel prices have surged 70% since the start of the war in the Middle East and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Read more…
Asia-USWC stays elevated as carriers take hard line on price (The Loadstar)
Container spot freight rates on the transpacific trade into the North America west coast managed to defy gravity and edge up this week, while most other east-west trades witnessed a third consecutive week of declines. Read more…