Tariff Truce Brings Hope—but Supply Chains Still Need a Backup Plan

The latest trade headlines call it a “tariff truce,” and while that’s true on paper, out here in the trucking and drayage world, we know better than to count on stability overnight.

On May 12, new U.S. tariff data confirmed a temporary rollback in duties, with Chinese imports dropping from a high of 145% down to 30%. That same week, reports of renewed Halloween and holiday season ordering activity out of China started making waves, suggesting optimism from U.S. retailers looking to restock shelves and recapture momentum.

But here’s the catch: a tariff truce isn’t a tariff fix.

At Terminal Transfer, we’ve been watching this closely because these kinds of policy shifts hit the port first, then hit the yard. Big jumps in seasonal freight volume—especially if importers are rushing to beat another tariff increase—create congestion, detention time, and equipment shortages fast.

Our team is already preparing for an inbound wave from late Q2 to early Q3. If you’re moving goods through Seattle or Tacoma, or connecting to broader inland routes, this is the time to confirm your drayage schedule and pad your lead times.

What You Should Know:

• The current tariff truce is temporary—90 days—and could change quickly based on negotiations or political pressure.

• Retailers may frontload orders again to avoid risk, which could cause another peak season squeeze earlier than expected.

• Container volume could surge mid-summer, leading to longer wait times and potential chassis scarcity.

• Truck capacity will tighten quickly if volumes spike and terminals get overwhelmed.

At Terminal Transfer, we’re built to flex with your freight. That means honest updates, strong communication, and a team that knows how to keep cargo moving even when the ports get crowded.

If your supply chain is still waiting for a green light, now’s the time to plan smarter. We’ve got the trucks, the timing, and the track record to make it happen. Contact Terminal Transfer to learn more.