For the Week of October 12, 2026:
This Week:
- Federal court clears a path for broader IEEPA tariff refund claims
- Golden Week slowdown fails to ease elevated trans-Pacific ocean rates
- Canada’s shift toward Europe creates new air cargo opportunities
- U.S. container imports reach a record high for September
- Diesel prices remain elevated despite efforts to increase fuel supplies
Federal Court Clears Path for IEEPA Tariff Class Action
The U.S. Court of International Trade has certified a class-action lawsuit covering importers who paid tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) between February 1, 2025, and February 19, 2026. The decision could create a broader pathway for businesses seeking refunds, including importers that have not filed individual lawsuits.
The certified class excludes businesses already pursuing separate litigation. While the ruling represents an important development, it does not immediately authorize refunds or expand eligibility through CBP’s existing refund process. Additional legal proceedings remain, including an October 13 conference and an October 22 deadline for a proposed litigation schedule.
JMR Takeaway: Importers that paid IEEPA duties should review their historical entries, refund exposure, and litigation status as the class-action process develops.
Golden Week Slowdown Fails to Ease Ocean Freight Rates
China’s Golden Week holiday typically brings a slowdown in shipping activity, but trans-Pacific ocean freight rates remain elevated as weather-related disruptions continue to affect major Asian ports. According to Freightos, Asia-to-U.S. West Coast spot rates declined 3% to $8,322 per forty-foot equivalent unit (FEU) as of October 6, while East Coast rates remained steady at $9,606 per FEU.
Typhoon-related congestion, vessel backlogs, and blank sailings are limiting the relief shippers would normally expect during this period. Some major Chinese ports have experienced delays of seven to ten days, with schedule disruptions potentially extending further into October as terminals work through accumulated cargo.
JMR Takeaway: Importers should continue monitoring vessel schedules and port conditions, as lower seasonal demand may not translate into immediate freight rate relief or improved transit reliability.
Canada’s Shift Toward Europe Creates Air Cargo Opportunities
Canada’s efforts to diversify trade away from the United States are creating new opportunities for transatlantic air freight. As tariffs affect established North American trade relationships, Canadian businesses are increasingly exploring European markets, generating demand for new shipping routes and capacity.
Edmonton International Airport reported growing European cargo activity, while industry experts warn that limited transatlantic capacity could restrict further expansion. Western Canadian shippers remain particularly dependent on connections through eastern gateways and U.S. hubs. Seasonal reductions in passenger flights could also reduce available cargo space as winter approaches.
JMR Takeaway: Businesses developing new Canada-Europe trade lanes should evaluate air cargo availability, routing options, and seasonal capacity constraints before committing to new supply chain arrangements.
U.S. Container Imports Reach Record September Volumes
U.S. ocean container imports reached 2.55 million TEUs in September, marking the highest September volume on record and a 10.3% increase compared with the same month in 2025, according to Descartes Systems Group.
Imports from China were a major contributor, increasing 21.2% year over year to approximately 924,454 TEUs. Chinese shipments accounted for 36.3% of total U.S. container imports during the month, with consumer goods including furniture, toys, and household products representing significant categories. Despite the September surge, total import volumes for the first nine months of 2026 were only 0.8% above the same period last year.
JMR Takeaway: Strong September import volumes highlight continued demand for ocean transportation, but importers should monitor port capacity and seasonal shipping patterns as trade policy and sourcing strategies evolve.
Diesel Prices Remain Elevated Despite Supply Measures
U.S. diesel prices remain near record highs despite recent federal efforts to increase fuel availability. The national average reached approximately $6.28 per gallon on October 8, reflecting continued pressure on fuel markets from geopolitical conflicts and disruptions to global energy supplies.
The administration has pursued measures including emergency petroleum reserve releases and temporarily allowing tax-exempt red-dyed diesel to be used on public roads. However, these actions have yet to deliver meaningful price relief. Industry participants have raised concerns about logistical complications, unclear tax obligations, and limited financial incentives for fuel distributors.
JMR Takeaway: Shippers should continue preparing for elevated fuel surcharges and transportation expenses, as current supply measures have not yet produced sustained diesel price relief.
Stay Ahead of Supply Chain Changes
As supply chain conditions continue to evolve, understanding the impact on your operations is critical. For immediate questions or guidance, contact our team.
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