CV International & Capes Shipping Agencies Newsletter | Summer 2026

At CVI, we strive to keep our customers updated on current trends & events impacting their supply chain. We send regular Client Alerts but encourage you to also follow us on LinkedIn for all the details in between. On LinkedIn, we provide you with Customs updates, company updates, port closures, rate fluctuations, and much more.

A Message from our CEO, Mike Coleman

Dear Valued Colleagues, Clients, Partners, and Friends,

Every summer, our team gathers for our annual sales and management meetings, and I always come away reminded of what makes this company work: it’s our people, and the intention we bring to how we treat each other and our customers. Much of our time this year returned to the same foundation that guides every town hall and major decision: our seven core values of adaptability, collaboration, excellence, integrity, leadership, professionalism, and stewardship.

That foundation matters more than ever in years like this one. Tariff complexities continue to test importers, geopolitical tension shows no sign of easing, and global market volatility remains a constant backdrop. It’s in moments like these that having a clear set of values — and a team that actually lives them — makes the difference between reacting to change and navigating it with intention.

Behind the scenes, there’s a lot happening at CVI and Capes that I’m genuinely excited about. Growth and investment remain very much part of our plans, and we look forward to sharing them with you in the months ahead.

Underneath it all is a simple idea that hasn’t changed since day one: we want to be an extension of your business, treating your shipments, your deadlines, and your challenges like they’re our own.

Sincerely,

Mike Coleman,
Chief Executive Officer
CVI and Capes Shipping

Global Logistics Update

Global Logistics Update

Asia-US ocean carriers implemented another rate increase on August 1, and rates so far are holding at higher levels. Space remains tight on all trades, especially to East and Gulf Coast destinations. Fixed/long-term contract allocation continues to be limited by the carriers in favor of higher spot space. On the India-US trade, rates have been rising due to service and capacity cuts by ocean carriers.

The demand outlook remains unclear. Many analysts expected a weakening of the market by August, but volumes appear stable for now, though a shift is possible at any point.

Carriers are also announcing Panama Canal surcharges for services transiting the canal. This is the beginning of another El Niño cycle; water levels are low and expected to deteriorate over the next several months. Canal slot auction costs are up and continuing to rise. We expect carriers will begin to limit cargo weight on these trades as well, prioritizing lighter cargo.

In Europe, the Rhine River is also experiencing low water levels, resulting in surcharges and concerns that the waterway may become impassable. Such an extreme development would create even more congestion at European ports and rails throughout the region.

Truck capacity in the US remains tight and costly. There is no shortage of capacity constraints and disruptions currently. We highly recommend early bookings, with 4-6 weeks being the ideal window.

Rachel Shames
VP, Pricing & Procurement

Compliance Update

Tariff & Trade Compliance Update: Section 301, Brazil, Canada & IEEPA Refunds

U.S. importers are facing several significant tariff and customs developments, including the implementation of new Section 301 duties, additional tariffs on imports from Brazil, upcoming Section 338 tariffs affecting certain Canadian goods, and new uncertainty surrounding the recovery of IEEPA tariff refunds. Importers should review the potential impact of these changes on their products and closely monitor developments as implementation continues.
 

New Section 301 Tariffs Take Effect

The Section 122 tariffs implemented in February 2026 expired on July 24, 2026, and were immediately followed by a new Section 301 tariff program. The new tariffs resulted from a U.S. Trade Representative investigation into foreign policies and enforcement related to forced labor and the movement of goods produced with forced labor.

The investigation identified 60 U.S. trading partners as failing to sufficiently inhibit or enforce bans on forced-labor goods. Collectively, these markets represent approximately 99.4% of U.S. imports.

Under the new tariff structure, 17 countries are subject to an additional 10% duty, while 38 countries are subject to a 12.5% duty. Imports from the European Union and Taiwan are subject to a combined Column 1 and Section 301 duty rate of up to 10%, while imports from Japan, South Korea and Switzerland are subject to a combined rate of up to 12.5%. If the normal Column 1 duty already meets or exceeds the applicable threshold, no additional Section 301 duty is added.

Several exemptions apply, including certain goods entered duty-free under USMCA, qualifying CAFTA-DR textiles and apparel, Section 232 articles, civil aircraft, pharmaceutical products, informational materials and certain other specifically excluded products.

For imports from China, the new Section 301 tariffs may apply in addition to existing Section 301 duties established during the first Trump administration. Read more...

John Boomhover,
Director of Compliance & Customs Services 

Upcoming Events

Connect with CVI: Industry Events We'll Be Attending Soon

International Woodworking Fair (IWF) 

August 25-28 | Atlanta, GA | Learn More

International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS)

September 14-19 | Chicago, IL  | Learn More

NCWTA Annual Summit

September 17-18 | Charlotte, NC | Learn More

Breakbulk Americas 2026

September 22-23 | Houston, TX | Learn More

VMA26 International Trade Symposium

October 13-15 | Norfolk, VA | Learn More

High Point Furniture Market (Fall)

October 17-21 | High Point, NC | Learn More

Pack Expo International

October 18-21 | Chicago, IL | Learn More

Company News

Michael Coleman Named to 2026 Inside Business Power List: Emeritus

We're proud to share that Michael Coleman, CEO of CVI and Capes, has been named to the 2026 Inside Business Power List: Emeritus.

This distinguished recognition honors leaders whose vision, service, and contributions have left a lasting impact on the Hampton Roads business community. Throughout his career, Mike has not only guided the continued growth and success of CVI and Capes but has also played an influential role in advancing Virginia's maritime, transportation, and global trade industries.

In addition to his leadership within our organization, Mike has dedicated years of service to numerous state and regional boards, commissions, and trade organizations, helping shape policies and initiatives that strengthen the Commonwealth's position as a global logistics and maritime hub.

This recognition reflects Mike's enduring commitment to leadership, collaboration, and the continued growth of the industries and communities we proudly serve. Congratulations, Mike, on this well-deserved honor and thank you for your continued leadership!

CVI's Casey Murphy Receives VMA's Clifton Styles Jr. Beacon Award

We're proud to celebrate Casey Murphy, Assistant Director of Customs & Compliance Services at CVI, on being named the recipient of the 2026 Clifton Styles Jr. Beacon Award from the Virginia Maritime Association.

The award recognizes professionals who make a lasting impact through their dedication, leadership, and commitment to their teams and organizations—individuals who serve as true beacons of excellence within the maritime industry.

At CVI, Casey exemplifies those qualities every day. As Assistant Director of Customs & Compliance Services, she helps customers navigate the ever-changing complexities of international trade compliance while providing the expertise and trusted guidance they rely on to keep their supply chains moving. Her commitment to excellence extends beyond her work with customers, as she is also a valued mentor and resource for colleagues throughout the organization.

Reflecting on this honor, Casey shared: "I'm honored and humbled to receive this award. I am thankful to all my mentors who have helped me become the best that I can be."

Casey's dedication to her profession, her teammates, and the maritime logistics community embodies the spirit of this award. We congratulate her on this well-deserved honor and thank her for the expertise, leadership, and integrity she brings to CVI every day.

A Sendoff to Remember: Celebrating Sam McClure’s Retirement

Our teams from CVI and Capes recently gathered in Norfolk for our annual leadership meeting — a great opportunity to spend time together, take stock of the past year, and chart the course for the one ahead.

But the highlight of the week? Sending off Sam McClure, our recently retired Director of Customs & Compliance, in style.

The celebration took place at The Sitio in Virginia Beach, overlooking the surfers shredding waves at Atlantic Park’s Wavegarden Cove, a fitting backdrop for a retirement that’s bound to include a lot more relaxation ahead. The night even featured a special performance from Vinny Di Costanzo, who serenaded the crowd with his own rendition of Billy Joel’s “Piano Man”, reworked as “The Tariff Man” for the occasion.

Sam’s expertise and steady hand in customs and compliance left a lasting mark on CVI. Congratulations again, Sam — enjoy every minute of retirement!

On the Move: CVI & Capes Participate in Norfolk's ADP Corporate 5K

CVI & Capes team members recently enjoyed a fantastic evening at the ADP Corporate 5K in Downtown Norfolk, joining colleagues and fellow members of the Hampton Roads business community for an event focused on fitness, connection, and community engagement.

Beyond the race itself, we were especially proud to support Starting Strides, a youth scholarship program that helps children in economically disadvantaged communities across Coastal Virginia gain access to the shoes, gear, and support needed to participate in youth running events.

Events like the ADP Corporate 5K are a great reminder of the value of teamwork, wellness, and giving back. We appreciate everyone who participated and helped make the evening such a positive experience for our team and our community. We look forward to continuing to support opportunities that strengthen both our organization and the communities we serve.

CVI Webinar Series: Keep Importers Informed & Compliant 

As global trade regulations continue to evolve, CVI's Customs & Compliance Team remains committed to helping importers stay informed through our complimentary webinar series.

Our two most recent sessions addressed some of today's most pressing compliance topics. One webinar in late July provided an update on the latest customs and tariff developments, including Section 301 changes, proposed Brazil tariffs, Canada trade developments, IEEPA refunds, and recent customs enforcement initiatives.

Another webinar in May, prepared importers for the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) new mandatory eFiling requirements, covering which products are affected, importer responsibilities, and key steps for achieving compliance.

Through educational webinars and timely compliance updates, CVI continues to equip our valued customers and other importers with the knowledge they need to navigate an increasingly complex global trade environment with confidence.

To review presentation materials and other resources from these and other CVI webinars, visit the Resources section of our website. 

CVI Showcases Supply Chain Visibility Solutions at SCOP Training

CVI recently participated in the SCOP Training: Logistics & Customs Best Practices, hosted by VEDP International Trade in Norfolk, Virginia.

The two-day program brought together supply chain professionals, importers, exporters, and compliance experts to discuss real-world logistics challenges and strategies for building more resilient supply chains.

During the event, CVI Regional Sales Manager Jeffrey Bennett highlighted CVInsightTM, CVI’s supply chain visibility platform designed to transform complex data into clear, actionable insights. The session demonstrated how enhanced visibility can help businesses better understand their operations and make more informed supply chain decisions.

CVI appreciates the opportunity to connect with industry professionals and share solutions that help customers navigate today’s evolving global trade environment.

Celebrating National Intern Day!

On National Intern Day, we proudly recognized the talented interns who spent their summer learning, growing, and contributing to CVI and Capes' success.

Our internship programs are designed to provide meaningful, hands-on experience across a variety of disciplines—from global logistics and customs compliance to vessel operations and agency services. By working alongside experienced professionals, interns gain valuable industry knowledge while developing the skills needed to launch successful careers in the supply chain and maritime industries.

This summer, we were pleased to welcome Scotty Sullivan (Marketing Intern, CVI), A.J. Price (Operations Intern, Capes), and Michael Coleman Jr. (Operations Intern, Capes). Their enthusiasm, professionalism, and willingness to learn made them valuable members of our team, and we appreciate the contributions each of them made throughout the summer.

We're proud to invest in the next generation of logistics and maritime professionals and look forward to seeing where their careers take them. We wish Scotty, A.J., and Michael continued success in the years ahead.

CVI Shares Export Expertise at NCDEC Export University 101

CV International’s Export Supervisor, Sarah Certo, recently had the opportunity to present at the North Carolina District Export Council’s (NCDEC) Export University 101 session at A-B Tech Community College in Asheville, NC.

During the session, Sarah shared insights into the fundamentals of exporting, including the freight forwarder’s role in international trade, transportation modes, Incoterms, export documentation, and classification. These foundational topics help businesses better understand global logistics and navigate the process of expanding into international markets.

CVI thanks the NCDEC team and all attendees for the opportunity to share industry knowledge and engage in meaningful conversations that support the future of global trade.

Recognizing the Leaders Behind Our Success

Capes Shipping Agencies is pleased to announce the promotions of Rachel Upshaw to Director of Business Processes and Nick Asaro to Director of Cargo Solutions.

Since joining Capes, Rachel has played a key role in driving process improvements, operational excellence, and team development. Most recently, she has successfully led the company's Offshore Wind division while strengthening the systems and processes that support continued growth.

Nick's promotion recognizes his exceptional expertise in dry bulk logistics and his customer-first approach to developing innovative cargo solutions. His industry knowledge and leadership have expanded Capes' capabilities across multiple commodity sectors while delivering lasting value to customers.

These well-deserved promotions reflect Rachel's and Nick's dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence. We congratulate them both on this exciting milestone and look forward to the continued impact they will have as they help shape the future of Capes Shipping Agencies.

Strengthening Industry Connections:
Capes at the HRCA Spring Reception

Capes was proud to attend the Hampton Roads Coal Association (HRCA) Spring Reception, an event that brings together leaders from the coal and maritime industries across the Hampton Roads, Virginia region.

The evening provided a great opportunity to reconnect with customers, colleagues, and industry partners while celebrating the strong relationships that continue to support the success of Hampton Roads’ maritime and energy communities.

As a long-standing member of HRCA, Capes values the organization’s important role in supporting coal export operations through the Port of Hampton Roads and advancing the industry through collaboration, responsible practices, and a shared commitment to long-term growth. We are also proud to recognize Capes President Bobby Scott for his leadership as President of the HRCA Board. His dedication and industry expertise continue to strengthen an organization that plays a vital role in the region and the industries it serves.

Capes appreciates the opportunity to be part of events that bring the maritime community together, and we look forward to continuing to support partnerships that advance our industry.

A Deeper Gateway for Global Trade:
Capes & CVI Celebrate the Port of Virginia Channel Expansion 

CV International and Capes Shipping Agencies were proud to join port partners, customers, and community leaders at The Port of Virginia’s Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony celebrating the completion of its deepest and widest channel on the U.S. East Coast.

Capes President Bobby Scott and CVI Norfolk Branch Manager Vinny Di Costanzo represented our teams at this important milestone for Virginia’s maritime community, recognizing the continued investment and collaboration that strengthen the region’s role in global trade.

With a 55-foot channel, The Port of Virginia is positioned to support greater capacity, improved efficiency, and new opportunities for the customers and industries that rely on this critical gateway.

CVI and Capes are proud to be part of such a dynamic port community and look forward to seeing the continued growth and possibilities this expansion will bring.

A First Call Worth Celebrating: Welcoming the M/V Bloemgracht  

Capes was proud to welcome the M/V Bloemgracht on her maiden voyage to the United States with a special plaque presentation from our Savannah team.

The occasion marked the vessel’s first call to the U.S., and our team was pleased to help celebrate the milestone while wishing the crew fair winds and following seas as the vessel continues her service.

Spliethoff has been a valued Capes customer for many years, and moments like this highlight the strong relationships that define the maritime industry. A vessel agency is built on trust, consistency, and a commitment to supporting our customers through every port call.

A special thank you to our Savannah operations team, including Jordan Ryan, for helping to make this welcome memorable. Capes appreciates the opportunity to be part of these milestones and the partnerships that continue to move our industry forward.

New Team Members

Welcome to CVI and Capes Shipping!

Monica Doyle, CVI, Customs Brokerage Specialist, Norfolk, VA
CVI is excited to welcome Monica to our corporate Norfolk, VA office as a Customs Brokerage Specialist. She joins the team with previous customs brokerage experience. Originally from Ohio, Monica has two children, Jasmine and Elijah, and two cats, Bella and Boots. In her free time, she enjoys yoga and hopes to learn how to surf one day. Welcome to the team, Monica!

Charlotte Baswell, CVI, Import Transportation Supervisor, Atlanta, GA
We’re pleased to welcome Charlotte to the CVI Atlanta office as an Import Transportation Supervisor. With 30 years of experience in freight forwarding across both imports and exports, she brings a wealth of industry knowledge to the team. A Decatur, GA native, Charlotte enjoys spending time with her family and is a devoted Georgia Bulldogs fan. She also supports St. Jude and hopes to travel internationally one day. Welcome to CVI, Charlotte! 

Keoni Brown, CVI, Customs Brokerage Specialist, Norfolk, VA
CVI is proud to welcome Keoni to our corporate Norfolk, VA office as a Customs Brokerage Specialist. She brings experience in warehouse operations, logistics, and customer service and is excited to grow her career with CVI. A Chesapeake, VA native, Keoni enjoys playing volleyball and tennis and spending time with her Shih Tzu, Rico. Traveling to tropical destinations is high on her bucket list. Welcome to the team, Keoni!

Marquitta Gleaton, CVI, Customs Brokerage Specialist, Charlotte, NC
CVI is excited to welcome Marquitta to our Charlotte, NC office as a Customs Brokerage Specialist. A Springfield, SC native, Marquitta enjoys collecting sneakers in her free time. She is a supporter of Angel Tree and the Salvation Army and is a fan of the San Antonio Spurs, Los Angeles Sparks, Tennessee Volunteers, and Atlanta Braves. On her bucket list are chasing a tornado and visiting the Hobbit houses in New Zealand. Welcome to the team, Marquitta!

Freida Jones, CVI, Customs Brokerage Specialist, Atlanta, GA
We are excited to announce Freida as a new member of the CV International team! Freida will be serving as a Customs Brokerage Specialist in our Atlanta, GA office. She has worked in customs brokerage and compliance for more than 10 years. Freida was born in Atlanta, GA. She has three children named Malachi, Arianna, and Anari Grace! Some of her interests include aesthetics, skincare, nails, and facials. Her favorite charity is Veterans Empowerment (VEO). She has also actively participated in feeding them once a month. It’s on her bucket list to go white water rafting! Welcome, Freida, to the CVI team!

Amy Christian, CVI, Customs Brokerage Specialist, Norfolk, VA
Join us in welcoming Amy Christian to the team! Amy will be serving as a Customs Brokerage Specialist in our Norfolk, VA office. She has over 30 years of experience in the maritime shipping industry. Amy was born in New Orleans, LA. She has two Shih Tzus named Khloe and Gemma. When she’s not working, she enjoys bargain shopping and binging a great show! Her favorite charity is the Glioblastoma Foundation. She doesn’t have a favorite sports team but loves listening to a great band or going to a concert. Welcome, Amy, to CVI!

Michael Duncan, CVI, Import Transportation Coordinator, Norfolk, VA
CVI is excited to announce the newest member of the CV International team, Michael! Michael will be serving as an Import Transportation Coordinator in our Norfolk, VA office. He has worked in the past as an Import Premiere Representative and as a Transportation Analyst. Michael was born in Warner Robins, GA, and he is a fan of the Miami Dolphins. He doesn’t have a specific bucket list item. He’s living one day at a time and appreciating each day. Welcome to the team, Michael!

Jase D'Angelo, CAPES, Vessel Manager, New Orleans, LA
We are excited to announce Jace to the Capes team! Jace will be serving as a Vessel Manager in our New Orleans, LA office. He has worked on the Mississippi River for the last 14 years in vessel operations. He is happy to be here as part of the Capes Team! Jace was born in New Orleans, LA. He has a French Bulldog named Luca. When he’s not working, he enjoys sports, traveling and the outdoors. His favorite sports teams are LSU and the Saints. His favorite charity is St. Judes Children’s Hospital. It’s on his bucket list to visit the Holy Land in Jerusalem and connect with family in Sicily and Southern Italy. Welcome, Jace to the Capes team!

Lakita Williams, CVI, Receptionist/Administrative Support, Norfolk, VA
We are excited to announce Lakita as a member of the CV International team! Lakita will be serving as Receptionist/Administrative Support in our Norfolk, VA office. Previously, she has held administrative positions and worked in benefits programs. Lakita was born in Suffolk, VA. She has three adult children and one granddaughter. When she’s not working, she enjoys shopping and vacations. She’s active in volunteering at PTA school meetings. Her favorite sports team is the New York Knicks. It’s on her bucket list to go to Turks and Caicos! Welcome to the team, Lakita!

Amelia Solesky, CVI, Import Transportation Coordinator, Charlotte, NC
We’re pleased to welcome Amelia to the CVI Charlotte office as an Import Transportation Coordinator. She has worked in logistics and operations since 2010. Amelia was born in Greenville, SC. She has six siblings who live all across the country. She also has two tortoise shell tabby cats with a lot of personality named Freya and Leia. When she’s not working, she enjoys swing dancing, photography, gardening, and anything outside. Her favorite sports teams are the Panthers, Tampa Bay Rays, and Hurricanes. It’s on her bucket list to travel outside the US, host a photography expo and publish a novel! Welcome to the team, Amelia!

Aidan Master, CAPES, Operations Agent, Norfolk, VA
Capes is excited to announce that Aidan Master has officially become the newest member of the Capes team! Aidan will be serving as a full-time Operations Agent in our Capes Norfolk, VA office. Aidan recently graduated from James Madison University with a bachelor’s in business management. He has previously completed a Summer and Winter 2025 Internship with Capes assisting with offshore wind. Please join us in welcoming him to the Capes team!

Thomas Quinones, CAPES, Operations Manager, Houston, TX
We are excited to announce the newest member of the Capes Shipping Agencies team, Thomas! Please join us in welcoming hi. Thomas will be serving as an Operations Manager in our Houston, TX office. He has worked in the maritime industry for 10 years in the US Gulf. In the past he was a Senior Vessel Coordinator / Port Agent. Please join us in welcoming Thomas to the Capes team!

Industry News

News Updates

Tariffs, geopolitics, uncertain cargo demand cloud H2 outlook: CMA CGM (JOC)
US tariff policy, geopolitics and uncertainty over whether the early peak season seen on the trans-Pacific in the second quarter will continue to drive cargo demand are clouding the outlook for the second half of 2026, CMA CGM said Tuesday. Read more...

How War, Inflation and Rising Material Costs Are Causing a Supply Chain ‘Squeeze’ (Supply Chain Brain)
Even as manufacturers struggle to fashion long-term sourcing strategies in line with the changing geopolitical landscape, they face more immediate problems: the rising cost of materials and lengthening supplier delays. Read more…

Shippers saved record on intermodal in Q2 amid truckload rate hikes (JOC)
US shippers saved a record 34.1% on spot market freight and 30% on contract loads in the second quarter by using domestic intermodal instead of long-haul trucking, according to the latest Journal of Commerce Intermodal Savings Index (ISI). Read more...

US breakbulk ports avoid congestion, for now, as market uncertainties loom (JOC)
Congestion may be ratcheting up at global ports, but breakbulk professionals expect US ports to maintain a steady flow of project cargo for the time being while continuing to face uncertainty in the market. Read more…

Latest trans-Pac rate push by carriers will test resilience of early peak (JOC)
The extent to which ocean carriers can get new container rate increases on the eastbound trans-Pacific to stick after Aug. 1 will demonstrate just how much staying power this early peak season has left. Read more…

Deadly Red Sea ship attack threatens to muddy return of Suez transits (JOC)
Three seafarers were reportedly killed early Tuesday in an attack on a cargo ship off the coast of Yemen at the southern entrance to the Red Sea, the deadliest strike on commercial shipping in the volatile area this year. Read more…

Air cargo carriers raise surcharges as jet fuel prices take off (JOC)
Average global jet fuel prices have jumped 35% since the first week of July, and some carriers are responding with sharp hikes in fuel surcharges that analysts expect will soon filter into air cargo rates. Read more…

Importers sue over forced labor tariffs on 60 economies (Freight Waves)
At 12:01 a.m. Eastern on July 24, the exact minute the temporary Section 122 import surcharge lapsed, duties of 10 percent or 12.5 percent took effect on goods from 60 economies under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. Read more…

New US 25% tariff hits billions of dollars in Brazilian exports (AJOT)
A new 25% U.S. tariff will hit a range of Brazilian goods on Wednesday, including farm machinery, wood products, ethanol and apparel, escalating tensions in an already strained relationship between the two most populous countries in the Western Hemisphere. Read more…