Overview of Key Tariff Policy Changes

1. Removal of Previously Imposed 10% Additional Tariffs

According to the official CBP notice, the following additional tariffs are no longer in effect as of February 24, 2026 (12:00 AM Eastern Time):

• The previously imposed 10% fentanyl-related tariff
• The previously imposed 10% reciprocal tariff

These tariffs have been officially suspended or removed, and this change applies based on the official customs clearance timing, not the vessel departure date or arrival date.

Important Compliance Principle: Clearance Time Determines Applicability

CBP has clarified that tariff applicability is determined based on:

• The official customs entry filing and clearance time, and
• Whether the cargo was cleared on or after 12:00 AM Eastern Time, February 24, 2026

This means:

• Shipments cleared before the effective time may still be subject to previous tariffs
• Shipments cleared after the effective time will follow the updated tariff structure

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2. Implementation of a New 10% Additional Tariff

At the same time, CBP has confirmed that a new 10% additional tariff has been implemented effective February 24, 2026.

This means:

• The previous tariff structure has been adjusted
• A revised tariff framework is now in place
• Importers must ensure their customs declarations reflect the updated tariff requirements

This change may impact:

• Total import duty costs
• Customs entry planning
• Shipment scheduling decisions
• Supply chain cost forecasting

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Practical Impact on Importers and Supply Chains

These tariff adjustments create both opportunities and risks depending on shipment timing and clearance status.

Potential Cost Implications

Importers may experience:

• Reduced tariff burden for certain previously affected shipments
• New tariff obligations under the revised structure
• Changes in overall landed cost calculations
• Adjustments to pricing, procurement, and inventory planning

Clearance Timing Is Now More Critical Than Ever

Because CBP applies tariff rules based on clearance time rather than shipping date, even small timing differences can significantly affect duty liability.

For example:

• Two shipments arriving on the same vessel may face different tariff treatments depending on when each entry is filed and cleared
• Delays in documentation submission could impact applicable tariff rates

Logistics Planning Considerations Moving Forward

Importers should consider adjusting your logistics strategies to maintain efficiency and cost control.

Recommended best practices include:

• Advance customs documentation preparation
• Accurate HS classification review
• Proactive customs entry filing
• Close coordination between suppliers, forwarders, and brokers
• Continuous monitoring of regulatory updates

These steps can help minimize unexpected duty exposure and avoid clearance disruptions.

How the Right Logistics Partner Makes a Difference

During periods of regulatory change, experienced freight forwarders play a key role in protecting importers from unnecessary risk.

At Linkway Freight, we actively monitor U.S. customs policy changes and help our clients:

• Coordinate customs clearance efficiently
• Minimize duty risks
• Ensure compliance with the latest CBP requirements
• Maintain stable and predictable supply chains

Our goal is simple: help importers move cargo safely, compliantly, and cost-effectively.

Conclusion

The tariff adjustment effective February 24, 2026, represents a significant regulatory update impacting imports from China to the United States. While certain previously imposed tariffs have been removed, a new 10% tariff structure is now in place.

The key determining factor is customs clearance timing, making proper planning and coordination essential.

Importers are strongly advised to review current shipments, confirm clearance timelines, and work closely with logistics and customs professionals to ensure compliance and cost efficiency.