Empowering Your Logistics: How August 2025 Freight Market Shifts Impact Iran, Georgia, Russia & Surrounding Regions
Global freight dynamics are evolving — and the August 2025 freight market shifts bring both challenges and opportunities for businesses across Iran, Georgia, Russia, UAE, Oman, Kazakhstan, and Armenia.
With new tariffs, capacity changes, and regulatory updates, supply chains need a sharper strategy than ever.
August 2025 freight market shifts — What’s changing?
Tariff increases & end of de minimis
Global freight dynamics are evolving, and businesses need to understand the latest trends. According to C.H. Robinson’s August 2025 Freight Market Update, the end of the $800 de minimis threshold for shipments to the US, combined with new tariffs, is creating higher costs and additional customs requirements.
Air and ocean capacity corrections are also affecting lead times, while truckload rate adjustments are shifting supply chain budgets.
From August 29, 2025, the long-standing $800 de minimis threshold for duty-free small shipments to the US is gone. Every package — even low-value ones — now requires customs clearance and may incur fees of $80–$200 per unit. For exporters of light goods, samples, or e-commerce products, this is a major cost increase. Additionally, new tariffs of up to 50% on certain commodities create extra pressure.
Air & ocean capacity corrections
Air freight is facing reduced capacity after months of inventory buildup. Ocean carriers are cancelling certain sailings — such as MSC’s Pearl service — which means longer lead times and tighter booking windows. The Port of Los Angeles hit record TEU volumes this summer, but industry experts expect a slowdown before the year ends.
Truckload rate adjustments
Forecasts for US truckload spot rates in 2025 have been revised: dry van +2%, reefer –1%. This may seem minor, but for supply chains relying on cross-border road freight through Kazakhstan or Armenia, even small percentage changes add up over time.
How this matters for clients facing August 2025 freight market shifts
- Small shipments get costlier
Without de minimis, low-volume exporters will feel a price squeeze. Consolidation of cargo with trusted logistics partners becomes critical. - Plan ahead for capacity crunches
Reserve space early in both air and ocean freight, and diversify port choices — e.g., via Indian or Mediterranean hubs. - Build resilience into routes
Avoid over-reliance on a single gateway. Multimodal combinations (ocean + truck, rail + road) help navigate disruption. - Budget for tariff impact
Factor new duties into your pricing and explore duty mitigation strategies where possible.
A success story from HAPCO Logistics operations
Earlier this year, a Georgian electronics exporter faced both higher duties and a shortage of air capacity. Our team consolidated their shipment with other clients’ cargo, rerouted via Istanbul using an ocean-truck combination, and cut their delivery costs by 15% while meeting the delivery deadline. This kind of agility turns market turbulence into competitive advantage.
Your next step for connection
The August 2025 freight market shifts are reshaping global trade, and preparation is your best defense. From tariff mitigation to route diversification, we can design a tailored logistics plan for your business in Iran, Georgia, Russia, and neighboring regions.
Contact us today to keep your supply chain resilient, cost-efficient, and ready for the next market change.