
Search our collection of articles, blogs, resources and more to stay informed on the goods movement sector.
A Tax on Trade: The Hidden Costs of the Port ISR
Mike Jacob, President
Examine how the South Coast Air Board’s proposed rule 2304 (ISR) acts as an indirect tax on consumers. This article analyzes regulation impacts, economic implications, and what maritime and logistics sectors need to know.
Dissecting the Backhaul Trade: Empties vs. Exports
Jock O’Connell
Explore the complexities of America’s containerized export trade in this in-depth analysis by Jock O’Connell. From rising outbound empty TEUs to long-standing trade imbalances, this article examines the economic, political, and logistical forces behind the U.S. backhaul trade. Featuring port-by-port breakdowns and historical context, it offers crucial insight into why empties are overtaking exports and what that reveals about U.S. competitiveness in global trade.
On The Waterfront Podcast with Waterfront Logistics
Join PMSA President Mike Jacob joins Waterfront Logistics, Weston LaBar for an insight podcast conversation on tariffs, regulatory complications and more.
The Hidden Cost of Unpredictable Trade Policy
Mario Cordero, CEO of the Port of Long Beach
In recent weeks, the Port of Long Beach announced the results of its new economic impact analysis that shows the millions of jobs and billions of dollars in wages that trade through our gateway supports across our nation.
Rebuilding the US Maritime Manufacturing Sector Requires Collaboration and Investment, Not New Tariffs and Taxes
Mike Jacob, President
In a political environment with a dearth of work across the aisle, the bipartisanship in efforts to reinvigorate and grow the US footprint in the maritime industry, including in the shipbuilding and equipment manufacturing sectors, is particularly remarkable.
When the National Closet Gets Too Full
Jock O’Connell
My late Aunt Euphrasia’s daughter Philomena has long been a prescient source of market intelligence. A notoriously frugal soul, she has always shopped for household staples, along with her usual supply of “cooking” wines, at discount stores she derisively refers to as her “General Buck” stores.
New Shipping Fees on Chinese Ships to Begin in 6 Months
In six months, the United States will be increasing fees on Chinese ships based on vessel capacity, as part of the Trump administration’s bid to revive the domestic maritime and shipbuilding industries.
Is It Too Late to Rescue American Global Economic Strength from Our Unforced Tariff Errors?
Mike Jacob, President
In this compelling commentary, PMSA President Mike Jacob critiques recent U.S. tariff policies as self-inflicted setbacks to American global economic leadership. He highlights the risks these measures pose to consumers, supply chains, and long-term industrial growth—including efforts to revitalize U.S. shipbuilding. Jacob calls for a return to trade policies that foster economic strength, global trust, and strategic maritime investment.
Double Whammy: How Trump’s Tariffs and California’s Port Mandates Threaten American Households
Natasha Villa, External Affairs Manager
Trump’s new tariffs and California’s Port ISR could raise costs on everyday goods - learn how these policies hurt working-class Americans.
Navigating Tariffs and Investment Uncertainty in Global Trade – PMSA in Conversation with Custom Goods
Uncertainty in global trade is impacting investment, logistics, and competitiveness. Learn how businesses are adapting to shifting tariffs and supply chain disruptions.
Trump’s Tariffs To Test Resilience of U.S. West Coast Ports
Trump’s tariffs are reshaping U.S. West Coast trade, impacting imports and exports. Explore tariffs definition, tariffs China policies, and tariffs example effects on ports. Learn how tariffs quotas and trade fees may disrupt shipping, with insights into economic shifts and a tariffs synonym for policy changes.