U.S. Customs and Border Protection remains operational during the government shutdown, with nearly all staff exempted from furloughs and continuing normal trade functions at ports of entry.

Ports of entry are open and staffed; cargo clearance, ABI support, ACE, OR&R, FP&F, permits, FTZ and bonded warehouse requests continue as normal.

Tariff enforcement will continue and CBP will implement new Section 232 tariffs as scheduled, including the Oct. 14 tariffs on lumber and furniture. Planning is also underway for a potential tariff on heavy trucks.

CBP is operating normally but that may not apply for other partner government agencies. They will process refunds, but Treasury disbursement of checks/ACH payments may be delayed. CSMS notices continue to be issued. While CBP’s website may not be fully updated during the shutdown, operational messages will still be sent.

In addition, essential roles like air traffic control will continue to work but there could be air freight delays while some support staff have been furloughed.

So, if your cargo requires approvals from agencies outside of CBP, please allow for potential delays. If you have any questions or need assistance with a shipment, please reach out to your Mallory Alexander representative.