Navigating Tariffs and Trade Policy Shifts
Since the Trump administration’s push to impose steep import tariffs on goods from China and other Asian countries, U.S. companies have been facing increasing uncertainty. With tariffs ranging from 10% to 25% on a wide variety of imported goods—especially electronics, textiles, and machinery—businesses importing from Asia must consider how to stay competitive under tightening trade regulations.
These tariffs, part of a broader economic agenda to bring manufacturing back to the U.S., have led many American businesses to reevaluate their supply chains. The costs associated with direct imports from Asia to the U.S. have skyrocketed, pushing companies to seek more cost-efficient and stable alternatives.
Europe as a Strategic Logistics Gateway
One alternative strategy gaining traction is the rerouting of imports through Europe. Instead of shipping products directly to the U.S., companies are importing goods from Asia to European ports such as Rotterdam, Antwerp, or Hamburg, storing them in bonded warehouses, and distributing them regionally within the European market.
Advantages of this approach include:
- Avoiding U.S. Tariffs: Goods stored or sold in Europe are not subject to U.S. import tariffs.
- Faster Distribution to EU Markets: A centralized European distribution center enables quick delivery to major markets such as Germany, France, and the Netherlands.
- Customs Flexibility: The EU’s customs regime offers bonded warehousing and deferred VAT payment, easing cash flow.
- Diversification of Risk: Reducing dependency on the U.S. market and building a European customer base buffers against future geopolitical or trade disruptions.
Why Van Galen Logistiek Is Your Ideal Partner
At Van Galen Logistiek, we specialize in facilitating seamless international logistics for companies navigating complex trade environments. For U.S. companies seeking to optimize their Asia-to-Europe supply chain, we offer unmatched expertise and infrastructure.
Here’s why Van Galen Logistiek stands out:
- Strategic Location in the Netherlands
Our warehouses are based in the heart of Europe’s logistics hub, with direct access to the Port of Rotterdam and Schiphol Airport. This allows for efficient handling of incoming goods from Asia and rapid distribution throughout Europe.
- Comprehensive 3PL Services
We handle every aspect of third-party logistics: container unloading, customs clearance, bonded warehousing, inventory control, pick & pack services, and last-mile delivery. This enables our clients to focus on growth and sales, not on logistics headaches.
- Tariff-Smart Distribution Planning
Our experts stay up-to-date with international trade laws and customs protocols. We assist clients in optimizing their import strategies to reduce or avoid punitive tariffs while maintaining full compliance with EU and U.S. regulations.
- IT-Integrated Supply Chains
We offer end-to-end supply chain visibility with track-and-trace technology, EDI integration, and real-time inventory updates—empowering companies to make data-driven logistics decisions.
- Sustainability & Scalability
Our logistics solutions scale with your business while prioritizing environmental efficiency—crucial for today’s ESG-conscious enterprises.
The Bottom Line
With trade policies evolving and import costs rising, it’s time for U.S. companies to rethink their logistics game. Outsourcing to a reliable European partner like Van Galen Logistiek allows you to navigate tariffs, serve European markets more effectively, and future-proof your international supply chain.
Contact Van Galen Logistiek today to explore how we can optimize your Asia-to-Europe logistics—and help you grow smarter.
