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The U.S. has introduced new tariffs on wood and furniture imports, tightened truck license policies, and launched a three-phase Amazon peak fee schedule. This article analyzes how these policies reshape global trade, logistics, and e-commerce strategies for 2025 and beyond.
Introduction: Three Economic Shifts Redefining Global Trade
In late September 2025, the U.S. government announced three sweeping policy changes that sent ripples through the global economy:
- Tariffs on imported wood and furniture
- Tightened CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) issuance rules
- Amazon’s new peak season surcharges
Each of these decisions carries deep implications for international supply chains, furniture exporters, and cross-border e-commerce sellers. Together, they mark a potential turning point for the post-pandemic global trade order.
1. U.S. Tariffs on Wood and Furniture – New Policies Explained
(1) Tariff Details and Implementation Schedule
On September 29, 2025, President Trump announced new tariffs on imported wood and furniture. The tariffs will take effect on October 14, 2025, with some rates increasing again on January 1, 2026.
The move is part of the administration’s “Made in America” initiative aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing.
(2) Exempted Countries and Trade Differences
Not all countries are affected equally. The policy excludes nations covered under tariff reduction agreements. For example:
- United Kingdom: import tariffs on wood capped at 10%
- European Union & Japan: total duties remain below 15%
For exporters in China, Vietnam, and India, this policy introduces significant competitive disadvantages and pricing pressures.
(3) Direct Impact on Furniture and Wood Supply Chains
- Rising Costs: Exporters face an estimated 20%–50% increase in costs.
- Supply Chain Shifts: Manufacturers may relocate part of their production to Southeast Asia or Mexico.
- Pricing Adjustments: Exporters must reassess their U.S. pricing models to maintain profit margins.
2. Tightened CDL Rules: U.S. Truck License Restrictions
(1) Policy Changes and Eligibility Limits
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has restricted CDL issuance for non-resident applicants. Only those holding valid visas such as H-2A, H-2B, or E-2 are now eligible. Holders of Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) no longer qualify.
(2) States Enforcing Suspension
The following states have suspended local CDL issuance for nonresidents:
- California
- Texas
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Dakota
- Washington
This is expected to reduce the available truck driver workforce by 8% nationwide in the next six months.
(3) Transportation Cost Surge and Logistics Implications
A shortage of truck drivers will inevitably push up transportation costs by an estimated 15%–20%, especially during holiday shipping peaks. This will indirectly affect FBA fulfillment fees, cross-border delivery, and overall product pricing in the U.S. market.
3. Amazon Peak Season Fees: Three-Phase Surcharge Plan
(1) Fee Structure Overview
Amazon’s 2025–2026 peak season surcharge will run from October 26, 2025, to January 17, 2026, divided into three phases:
| Period | Standard Item Fee | Handling Fee | Large Item Fee | Oversized Item Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 26 – Nov 22 | $0.40 | $8.25 | $90 | $485 |
| Nov 23 – Dec 27 | $0.60 | $10.80 | $107 | $540 |
| Dec 28 – Jan 17 | $0.40 | $8.25 | $90 | $485 |
(2) Cost Example: Seller Profit Calculation
Example for a U.S. FBA seller during the high-peak period (Nov 23–Dec 27):
- 100 standard packages (2 kg each): 100 × $0.60 = $60
- 10 large packages (30 kg each): 10 × $107 = $1,070
- 1 oversized package (70 kg): 1 × $540 = $540
✅ Total additional cost = $1,670
This represents an approximate 35% increase in logistics costs compared to off-season.
(3) Seller Strategies to Reduce Peak Costs
- Ship early: Move inventory before late October to avoid surcharges.
- Optimize storage: Use regional fulfillment centers to reduce distance costs.
- Dynamic pricing: Pass part of the surcharge to the final retail price.
4. Combined Impact on Global Supply Chains
(1) Challenges and Opportunities for Chinese Exporters
Chinese exporters—especially in wood and furniture—face short-term losses due to tariffs. However, long-term opportunities exist in diversifying exports toward Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
(2) Global Price Rebalancing
The combined impact of tariffs, trucking shortages, and Amazon surcharges is expected to lead to:
- Increased product prices globally
- Extended lead times
- Redistribution of supply chain hubs away from North America
5. Strategic Solutions for Businesses
(1) Pricing and Supply Chain Optimization
- Establish overseas warehouses to reduce tariff exposure.
- Partner with FTA-friendly countries to lower import costs.
- Use flexible pricing models to offset fluctuating logistics costs.
(2) Digital Transformation and Logistics Automation
Adopt AI-driven tools such as Helium 10 and Jungle Scout for data analytics, inventory optimization, and price monitoring. Integrate ERP systems to automate stock management and track cost structures in real-time.
Conclusion: A Turning Point in Global Trade
The U.S. 2025 trade and logistics policies mark a pivotal moment in global commerce. While short-term disruptions are inevitable, companies that embrace digital optimization, diversified supply chains, and agile pricing strategies will emerge stronger in the next phase of global trade evolution.
FAQs
Q1: How much will the new U.S. wood and furniture tariffs affect exporters?
A1: Costs are expected to rise between 20%–40%, depending on product category and logistics distance.
Q2: Will trucking policy changes delay Amazon shipments?
A2: Yes, reduced CDL availability will likely increase shipping times and delivery costs.
Q3: Can sellers avoid Amazon’s peak surcharge?
A3: No, but early shipping and regional fulfillment can reduce impact.
Q4: How can exporters minimize tariff exposure?
A4: Consider setting up local assembly plants or shifting trade to tariff-exempt countries.
Q5: What industries will be hit hardest?
A5: Furniture, construction materials, logistics, and e-commerce fulfillment sectors.
Q6: What’s the long-term outlook for global trade?
A6: Expect more protectionist policies, driving businesses toward digitalization and supply chain diversification.
External Reference:
Official USTR Trade Policy Announcements：https://ustr.gov/
