U.S. Government Shutdown Now in Effect
Trade Update • Oct. 1, 2025
Key Points
- U.S. Government Shutdown Is Active: As of October 1, 2025, the federal government has officially shut down, potenitally impacting customs operations and administrative functions.
- Customs Clearance Delays Expected: While CBP continues to process goods as all ports of entry are fully staffed and operational to clear cargo and perform trade-related functions; Partner Government Agencies (e.g., FDA, EPA) may be understaffed or unavailable, causing delays in documentation and border clearance.
- Importers Should Adjust Shipments: To avoid disruptions, importers are advised to hold back non-essential cargo and prepare for longer wait times at U.S. borders..
As of October 1, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. ET, the U.S. federal government has officially entered a shutdown due to a congressional impasse over spending bills. This development may impact trade operations, particularly customs processing and clearance activities.
Impact on Customs Clearance
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) –
Status: Business as Usual
- All ports are staffed; cargo clearance is proceeding normally.
- CBP permit payments and processing (including corporate permits) are unaffected.
- Refunds are being processed, though fund release depends on Treasury operations.
- ACE support remains available.
- The Customs Broker License Exam (CBLE) is still scheduled; CBP will notify if that changes.
Communications
- Updates will continue via CSMS notices.
Partner Government Agencies (PGAs)
Such as the FDA, EPA, and others may be unavailable or severely understaffed, which can potentially cause delays in clearance times. If issues arise:
- Contact your local PGA official
- Then your local CBP port official
- If unresolved, email tradeevents@cbp.dhs.gov
Ongoing Operations
- CBP Agriculture
- FTZ and bonded warehouse activations
- FP&F and Revenue divisions
- Trade Remedy Branch, inbox, and EAPA
- OR&R functions
What This Means for Importers, Exporters, and Carriers
- Delays in documentation processing
- Longer wait times at U.S. borders
- Potential disruptions in the movement of non-essential cargo
To minimize risk, we strongly advise holding back shipments of non-essential goods until normal operations resume.
GHY is actively monitoring the situation and will continue to provide timely updates as new information becomes available. Please get in touch with your Client Care Manager directly if you have further questions.
How GHY Can Help?
GHY specializes in helping businesses navigate and reduce the impacts of tariffs through strategic solutions tailored to their needs. Our experts can audit your supply chain to identify inefficiencies, uncover cost-saving opportunities, and ensure compliance with evolving trade regulations. We also employ tariff engineering techniques to optimize product classification and sourcing strategies, minimizing duty exposure and maximizing profitability.
By partnering with GHY, your business gains access to the tools and expertise needed to streamline operations and stay competitive in a challenging trade environment.
Contact Us Today! Booking a Meeting, email consult@ghy.com, or call +1 (800) 667-0771.
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