May 2025 Tariff Schedule Overview

U.S. Tariff Schedule Update – What Shippers Need to Know in 2025

The U.S. tariff landscape has shifted significantly in 2025, creating new challenges—and opportunities—for freight forwarders and their customers. With broad policy changes affecting everything from consumer goods to industrial equipment, staying informed is critical for navigating global trade and managing supply chain costs.

Below is a current overview of key U.S. tariff changes and their implications for importers, exporters, and logistics providers.

U.S. Tariff Overview – May 2025

1. Universal Tariff

• 10% Baseline Tariff on All Imports- Effective April 5, 2025, a blanket 10% tariff now applies to all goods entering the U.S., regardless of origin. This universal rate aims to encourage domestic production and reduce the trade deficit.

2. China

• 145% Tariff on All Chinese Imports- As of April 9, 2025, goods from China are subject to a combined 145% duty:

  • 20% fentanyl enforcement tariff

  • 125% "reciprocal" tariff aimed at leveling trade terms. Import volumes from China have dropped sharply in response, disrupting many long-established supply routes.

3. Mexico and Canada

• 25% Tariff on Non-USMCA Compliant Goods- Imports from either country that don't meet USMCA origin rules face a steep penalty.

• 10% Tariff on Energy and Potash- Affects both Mexico and Canada for specific commodities not qualifying under USMCA.

4. Steel & Aluminum

• 25% Tariff on All Imports- Reinstated in March 2025, this measure affects global metal trade and U.S. manufacturers relying on foreign materials.

5. Automobiles and Auto Parts

• 25% Tariff on Foreign Vehicles- In effect since April 3, 2025.

• 25% Tariff on Auto Parts (Non-USMCA)- Applies as of May 3, 2025, with an exemption for compliant North American production.

6. Foreign Films

• 100% Tariff on Non-U.S. Productions- Announced May 4, 2025, this controversial move targets foreign-produced films on the grounds of national security.

7. Imports from Countries Buying Venezuelan Oil

• 25% Tariff Across the Board- This sanction-driven measure affects goods from any nation actively trading with Venezuela for crude oil.

  
  

🌐 Retaliatory Tariffs: What Shippers Should Watch

Global trade partners are responding in kind:

Canada

• 25% retaliatory tariff on $20B+ in U.S. goods (effective since March 2025)

• Additional 25% tariff targeting U.S. steel, aluminum, and autos

• New tariffs on U.S. vehicles not meeting USMCA origin requirements

China

• Broad retaliatory tariffs between 10%–125%

• Export bans on critical materials (including rare earths, semiconductors, and auto components) from April 11, 2025

  
  

📦 What This Means for Your Supply Chain

As a freight forwarder, we’re actively helping clients mitigate the effects of these new tariffs through:

• Tariff classification audits and compliance support

• Alternative sourcing strategies (nearshoring, ASEAN routing)

• Efficient use of Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs) and bonded facilities

• Optimized routing to minimize tariff exposure and cost impact

  
  

🔍 Stay Ahead with Expert Support

Tariff policy is evolving rapidly in 2025. Whether you're importing electronics, automotive parts, industrial materials, or consumer goods, staying proactive is your best defense against rising costs and disruptions.

At RCD Logistics Inc., we monitor trade developments daily and work closely with customs brokers and legal experts to ensure your cargo moves efficiently—despite market volatility.

Need help reviewing your tariff exposure or adjusting your logistics strategy?Contact our team today for a personalized consultation.