John S. James Co.

🇲🇽 The SupplyChainBrain Podcast: A Manufacturer Moves from China to Mexico. How’s That Going?   In this episode from SupplyChainBrain, FabCast Solutions, a contract manufacturer specializing in engineered metal and plastic components for small to mid-sized companies, primarily in the automotive and commercial vehicle markets, shares its journey of shifting production from China to Mexico. FabCast founder and CEO Jonathan Egan discusses the rationale behind this strategic move, the company’s progress in its early days of manufacturing in Mexico, and the pros and cons of nearshoring. He also offers valuable advice for companies considering a similar transition. Hosted by Robert Bowman, Editor-in-Chief of SupplyChainBrain.   *At John S. James Co., we are a U.S. Customs Broker and Freight Forwarder with extensive expertise in facilitating trade between Mexico and the U.S. Our deep understanding of the USMCA trade agreement allows us to provide exceptional service to shippers already established in both countries, as well as those exploring nearshoring and China+1 strategies. We engage with numerous shippers on complex logistics solutions and ensure smooth operations across borders.   #SupplyChain #Manufacturing #Nearshoring #USMCA #Trade #Logistics #CustomsBroker #FreightForwarder #Mexico #USA #ChinaPlusOne #GlobalTrade #FabCastSolutions #JohnSJamesCo #SCBrain

 🚧 Port of Montreal: Dockworkers to Hold Another Partial but Unlimited Strike   Dockworkers at the Port de Montreal / Port of Montréal have decided to initiate another partial strike, starting Thursday at 11 a.m. This time, the strike will be unlimited, affecting the two Termont terminals. The union, representing 1,200 dockworkers, is pushing back against scheduling practices and work-life balance issues, alongside salary disputes. Michel Murray, union advisor at CUPE, stated that if an agreement on work hours is reached by Thursday, the strike notice will be withdrawn. The dockworkers have been refusing overtime work since October 10, adding to the pressure on Termont.   At John S. James Co., we are dedicated to providing top-notch U.S. Customs Brokerage and Freight Forwarding services. With our deep understanding of the USMCA trade agreement, we expertly facilitate trade between Canada and the U.S. We can assist you ensure smooth operations across borders. Learn more about our services at johnsjames.com.   #PortOfMontreal #DockworkersStrike #Termont #USMCA #Trade #Logistics #CustomsBroker #FreightForwarder #JohnSJamesCo #GlobalTrade #SupplyChain #Montreal #USA #Canada #Strike

🌍 Shipping Splits into ‘Parallel Universes’ Amid Global Trade Decoupling In a recent and informative article by respected journalist Greg Miller, the evolving landscape of global shipping is explored. Despite challenges such as the Russia-Ukraine war, Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, and US-China tensions, global trade flows remain at record highs. These dynamics are creating new opportunities and efficiencies in shipping routes. Speakers at the Capital Link New York Maritime Forum highlighted the bifurcation of global trade, with sanctions and tariffs leading to a split in shipping capacity. This “parallel universe” of shipping presents both challenges and exciting opportunities for the industry. At John S. James Co., we understand the intricacies of global trade and are dedicated to providing top-notch customs brokerage and freight forwarding services. Our expertise ensures your shipments are handled efficiently, even in a rapidly changing industry. Learn more about our services at johnsjames.com. #GlobalTrade #ShippingIndustry #FreightForwarding #CustomsBrokerage #MaritimeNews #JohnSJamesCo #TradeDisruptions #Geopolitics #CapitalLinkForum

🇹🇼 Check out our latest blog where we report the current changes in Taiwan’s container weight regulations and their impact on the shipping industry, as already announced by CMA-CGM, ZIM and Maersk. Learn how these new rules could affect your logistics operations and how John S. James Co. can support you through these changes. #GlobalTrade #ShippingIndustry #FreightForwarding #CustomsBrokerage #ContainerRegulations #Logistics #TaiwanShipping #SupplyChain #MaritimeNews #JohnSJamesCo #CMA_CGM #ZIM #Maersk

🚂 New Rail Link Approved: Connecting Mexico, Texas, and the Southeast U.S.   The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has approved a significant transaction involving CSX, Canadian Pacific (CPKC), and Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W). This deal will create a new rail interchange in Alabama, linking rail shippers in Mexico, Texas, and the Southeast U.S. CPKC will operate a 52-mile segment between Meridian, Mississippi, and Myrtlewood, Alabama, while CSX will manage the lines east of Myrtlewood. This new route aims to enhance competition, reduce truck traffic, and expand rail transportation across the southern U.S.   At John S. James Co., we are dedicated to providing exceptional customs brokerage and freight forwarding services. Our team ensures your shipments are handled with the utmost care and efficiency. Discover more about our services at johnsjames.com.   #RailLink #Transportation #Logistics #FreightForwarding #CustomsBrokerage #RailShippers #CSX #CPKC #GWRail #JohnSJamesCo #IndustryNews #Mexico #USMCA #Nearshoring

🇨🇦 Montreal Dockworkers Strike to Pressure Employers Dockworkers at the Port de Montreal / Port of Montréal initiated a one-day strike on Sunday to push for progress in challenging contract negotiations. This action, involving nearly 1,200 longshore workers, follows a series of strikes and aims to break the current impasse. The Maritime Employers Association remains hopeful for fruitful discussions with federal mediators to reach a collective agreement. The strike impacts operations at the Montreal port and Contrecoeur terminal, though essential services continue. At John S. James Co., we understand the complexities of the logistics industry and are committed to providing seamless customs brokerage and freight forwarding services. Our expertise ensures your shipments are handled efficiently, even amidst industry disruptions. Learn more about our services at johnsjames.com. #Logistics #FreightForwarding #CustomsBrokerage #SupplyChain #PortStrike #MontrealPort #JohnSJamesCo #ShippingIndustry #ContractNegotiations #MaritimeNews #Canada #Montreal #PortofMontreal

🚢 FMC Meeting Highlights: Enforcement, Charge Complaints & IT Upgrades   The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) recently discussed key topics including active investigations into major shipping companies, efforts to resolve billing disputes, and significant IT infrastructure upgrades. The FMC is prioritizing investigations into potential misconduct by common carriers and marine terminal operators, especially those impacting the industry negatively. They are also focusing on recent port work stoppages and ensuring no retaliation against complainants. The Charge Complaint process, established by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022, has led to over $3.2 million in waived or refunded charges. The FMC is also enhancing its IT systems to better serve the public and its employees.   At John S. James Co., we are committed to providing top-notch customs brokerage and freight forwarding services. Our expertise ensures smooth and efficient handling of your shipping needs. Learn more about our services at johnsjames.com.   #FMC #Maritime #Shipping #Logistics #FreightForwarding #CustomsBrokerage #ITUpgrades #Compliance #JohnSJamesCo #ShippingSolutions #IndustryNews

🚧 Major Settlement Reached in Baltimore Bridge Collapse The owner and manager of the cargo ship involved in the Baltimore bridge collapse have agreed to pay over $102 million for cleanup costs. This settlement follows a lawsuit by the Justice Department, which highlighted severe maintenance failures on the ship, leading to the tragic incident. The collapse disrupted shipping routes and caused significant economic impact. At John S. James Co., we understand the complexities and risks involved in global shipping. Our expertise in customs brokerage and freight forwarding ensures that your shipments are handled with the utmost care and efficiency. We also offer comprehensive insurance and risk management analysis for marine, rail, air, and trucking shipments. Learn more about our services at johnsjames.com. #BaltimoreBridgeCollapse #ShippingNews #FreightForwarding #CustomsBrokerage #RiskManagement #JohnSJamesCo

🚂 CSX Reaches New Agreements with Unions CSX has announced tentative five-year agreements with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the National Conference of Firemen & Oilers (NCFO). Additionally, an agreement with yardmasters represented by the International Association of Sheet Metal Air Rail & Transportation Workers-Transportation Division (SMART-TD) has been ratified. These deals, which cover 13 unions and 17 work groups, aim to enhance workplace safety, efficiency, and employee empowerment. The agreements include wage increases, improved health-care benefits, and better time-off policies. At John S. James Co., we understand the importance of strong partnerships and efficient operations. As U.S. Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders, we are committed to providing top-notch services that ensure your goods move smoothly across borders. Learn more about our services at johnsjames.com. #CSX #Railroad #UnionAgreements #FreightForwarding #CustomsBrokers #Logistics #SupplyChain #JohnSJamesCo #Transportation #EmployeeEmpowerment #WorkplaceSafety

📈 Tariffs and Trade: What’s Ahead for U.S. Importers?   As U.S. ports handle record-setting volumes, retailers are concerned about the potential impact of higher tariffs on foreign-made goods proposed by political leaders. These tariffs are intended to protect U.S. industry but are often seen as a tax on consumers. The National Retail Federation (NRF) warns that existing tariffs already cost households significantly, and further increases could exacerbate this burden. Despite these challenges, the NRF forecasts a record holiday retail season, with sales expected to rise by 2.5%-3.5% compared to last year.   At John S. James Co., we understand the complexities of international trade and the impact of tariffs on your business. Our expertise in U.S. Customs brokerage and freight forwarding ensures that your shipments are handled efficiently, minimizing costs and delays. Whether you’re dealing with maritime, air, rail, or inland routes, our team is here to support your logistics needs. Learn more about our services at johnsjames.com.   #Tariffs #TradePolicy #USImports #RetailIndustry #FreightForwarding #CustomsBroker #JohnSJamesCo #LogisticsSolutions #SupplyChainManagement